It’s not always easy to find a perfect match for an organ donor. However, for one family in Western New York, their prayers were answered when they found a perfect match.
Carissa Fisher, who was Ezra’s former preschool teacher, secretly applied to become a living donor upon learning of his condition. Without the Toczek family’s knowledge, she underwent the required testing in New York City in March. In a heartwarming turn of events, Carissa received the news that she had been approved to donate to Ezra.
Next, Fisher made her way to the Toczeks’ residence to deliver the news. She brought along a stuffed animal, balloons, and a personalized sign to make the occasion extra special.
Karen Toczek, Ezra’s mother, expressed how they were filled with emotions when he said, “I’m going to get a new liver.”
Russo was told by Fisher that one could never know whose life they might change. Fisher added that witnessing the joy of both individuals made her feel emotional and extremely happy.
Ezra’s family is eagerly awaiting the scheduling of the liver transplant, which they hope will take place later this summer. Unfortunately, the transplant team is located in New York City, which means there will be additional travel expenses to consider on top of the medical costs. To lend a helping hand, Toczek and Fisher have both established GoFundMe pages. If you’re interested in contributing, please visit their pages.
If the story of Ezra and Fisher has motivated you to become a living donor, you can find more information on ConnectLife and DonateLife.
Jeff Russo from Scripps News Buffalo originally published this story.