A five-year-old boy was recently released from the hospital after receiving a life-saving liver transplant. Ezra Toczek’s journey began in May when his family learned that his former preschool teacher, Carissa Fisher, was approved as a living donor.
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According to PEOPLE, 21-year-old Fisher donated a portion of her liver to Ezra, who had been battling liver complications since birth. His condition worsened earlier this year, leading to a diagnosis of end-stage liver disease, and he was placed on the transplant list in February. The preschool teacher was reportedly moved by his story and applied to be a donor in March. After being approved, she immediately shared the news with Ezra’s family.
Ezra and Fisher had their surgeries in mid-August. Both have been discharged, but Ezra had complications after four operations and spent 45 days in the pediatric intensive care unit. He was released on September 20 but will remain at a facility for the next week for recovery. Ezra’s mother, Karen Thorpe Toczek, explained, “He’s slowly gaining his strength back and adjusting to his new medication regimen and follow-up care.”
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Ezra also stayed in touch with his former preschool teacher, and she says her liver is already regrowing after the surgery.
“The doctors said my liver should be regrowing now and I have a check up/MRI scheduled in November in NYC to see how far it’s regrown and to make sure everything looks good!”
Reflecting on the experience, Karen expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support her family has received. “We have an amazing village rallying around us. We are so grateful for Ezra’s care team and everyone who has supported us through this journey.”
