Isaac Calkins was born with ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, a rare genetic disorder in which the liver doesn’t break down ammonia sufficiently. He needs a liver transplant, the second so far in his short life. His family is desperately seeking a living donor. A liver transplant is the only cure.
In June 2024, when Isaac was just 4-months-old, he received a liver from a deceased donor. Isaac was initially doing well with only a few mild setbacks, but by March, he was rejecting his new liver, suffering allergic reactions to medications and battling infections.
We need to find him a living liver donor fast as his condition is progressing.
Follow his story here @IsaacOTCWarrior and click the linktr.ee on their profile (or in my bio) so support the family financially or complete the donor form to see if you could be Isaac’s perfect match. #momlife #momtok #livertransplant #isaacotcwarrior
Living liver donation can be a lifesaving gift, especially for infants diagnosed with rare genetic disorders like ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency. This condition impairs the liver's ability to process ammonia, leading to dangerous toxin buildup. For babies like Isaac, who are facing critical progression after an initial deceased donor transplant, a living donor can provide a timely transplant opportunity that may improve long-term outcomes. Potential living donors undergo comprehensive testing to ensure compatible blood type, liver size, and overall health. The donor’s liver can regenerate to a healthy size after donation, making this a safe and impactful procedure when carefully managed. Living donation often shortens waiting times, which is crucial when a child’s condition is deteriorating. Supporting families like Isaac's extends beyond medical matches. Financial donations, awareness, and sharing their story can significantly contribute to covering treatment expenses, travel, and post-operative care. Community efforts, including social media campaigns using hashtags such as #livertransplant and #isaacotcwarrior, create vital connections to potential donors and supporters. If you are considering living donation, it's important to consult with transplant centers that specialize in pediatric liver transplants. They provide guidance on eligibility, risks, and the donor screening process. Even those not eligible to donate can contribute by spreading awareness or helping with fundraising. Finding a living donor can be challenging but every moment counts for children battling life-threatening liver conditions. Staying informed, compassionate, and proactive about campaigns like Isaac’s can help save precious lives and bring hope to families coping with rare diseases. Remember, spending just a minute to learn about liver donation and sharing stories can make a difference. For Isaac and many others, a donor match means a new chance to live and grow.