Senators' Melnyk: 'You have lifted my spirits, and ... given me all the strength I need'

Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk released a statement Monday thanking people for their support during his search for a live liver donor.

"I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the public and the media," Melnyk said. "It is truly heartwarming to feel loved by so many people."

Melnyk announced last week that he needed an emergency liver transplant after dealing with severe health problems. He received over 2,000 messages in response and 12 candidates were selected for donor screening.

"The act of helping one another is a powerful thing. You have lifted my spirits, and in the process have given me all the strength I need at this difficult time," Melnyk said.

Melnyk also thanked the medical staff of the University Health Network and Toronto General Hospital's Multi-Organ Transplant Program.