Five-year-old Ezra Toczek is embarking on a new chapter of life after being discharged from the hospital following a life-saving liver transplant. Ezra, who suffered liver damage at birth, faced ongoing health challenges that led to a diagnosis of end-stage liver disease. After months of uncertainty, he was placed on the transplant list.
In a remarkable twist of fate, Ezra learned in May that his former preschool teacher, Carissa Fisher, had been approved as a living donor. A living-donor liver transplant involves a healthy individual donating a portion of their liver to someone in need, according to the Mayo Clinic. Carissa, just 21 years old, stepped forward after hearing about Ezra’s prognosis. By May, she received the good news and quickly informed the Toczek family of her decision to help.
Ezra Toczek smiles with his former teacher, Carissa Fisher. Photo courtesy of the Toczek family
After her surgery, Carissa went home after just a few days. Ezra had a bit longer to go, and was finally released after undergoing three additional procedures, and spending 45 days in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).
Ezra is currently recovering at a facility near the hospital for the next several weeks. His mother, Karen Thorpe Toczek, shared that Ezra faced a few post-operative complications, which extended his hospital stay. However, she noted, “His new liver is doing really well!”
He’s slowly gaining his strength back.”
Though Karen acknowledges the emotional toll the experience has taken on her son, she emphasized that he remains in good spirits. “He has been through a lot, and at times I can see the toll it’s taken mentally, but overall, he’s in really good spirits,” she said. As they adjust to life post-operation, Ezra is adapting to a new medication regimen and a series of follow-up appointments.
The Toczek family is grateful for the support they have received during this challenging time. “We have an amazing village of support rallying around us through this,” Karen said. The bond between Ezra and Carissa has only grown stronger; they have checked in on each other frequently since their surgeries. “I can’t wait for Ezra to be home so I can give him a big hug!” Carissa said.
Ezra Toczek smiles as he heads home. Photo courtesy of the Toczek family
Reflecting on her recovery, Carissa admitted that managing pain was more challenging than she anticipated but said, “I’m doing a lot better now!” She is excited to see how her liver is regrowing during her follow-up appointments.
Karen described the moment of Ezra’s discharge, which she said was an emotional celebration, filled with joy. Hospital staff sang to him and filled the air with bubbles as he made his way down the hallway, receiving a “certificate of graduation.”
“Can’t put it into words really, never be able to repay (Carissa), you know, and I just love that she’s close enough that she’ll be able to stay in our lives, and really watch him grow,” the tearful mom said.
