The Inspiring Story of a Teacher’s Life-Saving Gift to a Former Student

Teacher Donates Liver to Save Former Student's Life: A Story of Selflessness and Hope

In a heartwarming and inspiring turn of events, Carissa Fisher, a 21-year-old teacher and U.S. Air Force member from Alden, New York, became an unexpected hero when she donated a portion of her liver to save the life of her former student, 5-year-old Ezra Toczek. This powerful story not only highlights the extraordinary power of organ donation but also sheds light on the incredible resilience of families and the life-changing impact of a single act of kindness.

Ezra’s Struggle with Progressive Liver Disease

Ezra's journey began when he was only a few months old. Born with severe liver damage, Ezra was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a rare condition that causes bile duct blockages and results in impaired liver function. His medical challenges continued as his condition worsened, and by the time he was 5 years old, Ezra was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease. The symptoms of fatigue, itching, and liver scarring were taking a toll on his young body, severely affecting his ability to live a normal life.

Ezra’s adoptive parents, Karen and Ron Toczek, first welcomed Ezra into their home in 2019 as foster parents. At the time, he was just seven months old and faced the uphill battle of living with liver damage from birth. Despite multiple procedures, Ezra's liver function continued to decline, and by early 2024, doctors determined he needed a liver transplant to survive.

The Search for a Donor

In February 2024, the Toczek family was faced with the harsh reality of Ezra’s deteriorating condition. Despite all available medical treatments, it was clear that a liver transplant was no longer a matter of "if," but "when." This realization was devastating for the family, who now had to face the difficult question of where they would find a donor. The process of receiving an organ donation through the traditional transplant waiting list was long and uncertain, leaving Karen to turn to social media for help.

"I just couldn’t stand the thought of Ezra not getting a transplant in time," Karen explained. "I shared his story online, hoping someone would come forward to help."

A Life-Changing Decision: Carissa’s Unlikely Act of Kindness

Carissa Fisher, who had once taught Ezra at daycare, was one of many who saw Karen’s social media post. When Carissa read about Ezra’s dire need for a transplant, she felt a deep sense of urgency and knew she had to act. Without hesitation, Carissa applied to donate a portion of her liver through the Liver Transplant Program at NYU Langone Health.

"I didn’t even think twice," Carissa shared. "If I were 5 years old, I would want someone to do it for me. I knew I could help, and I was determined to do so."

Carissa underwent a series of medical tests to determine if she would be a suitable donor. The results were astonishing: not only was she a perfect match for Ezra, but she was also in excellent health and physically capable of donating part of her liver.

The Heartwarming Surprise

On May 25, 2024, Carissa made a life-changing visit to the Toczek family home. She arrived unannounced, holding a sign that read, “Ezra, would you like to share my liver?” The surprise left Karen and Ron speechless. The relief of knowing that Ezra would not have to wait on the donor list for an organ was beyond words.

"We were in complete shock," Karen recalled. "I couldn’t believe someone who had been part of Ezra’s life years ago was willing to give him this gift. It was beyond anything we could have ever imagined."

The Transplant: A New Beginning

On August 7, 2024, Carissa and Ezra both underwent their respective liver surgeries at NYU Langone Health. Carissa’s procedure, a minimally invasive robotic surgery led by Dr. Karim J. Halazun, involved the removal of 30% of her liver, which was then transplanted into Ezra’s body.

"It’s remarkable that the liver is the only organ in the body that can regenerate itself," Carissa said. "In just six months, my liver will be back to its full size. I had no idea how incredible the regenerative power of the liver is."

Ezra’s transplant surgery, led by Dr. Adam Griesemer and Dr. Bernardo Daniel Campos, was equally successful. The transplanted liver grew with Ezra’s body, ensuring that he would have the necessary function to support his life and health for years to come.

The Recovery Process and Reuniting with a Hero

The recovery for both Carissa and Ezra was challenging but filled with moments of joy and hope. Ezra, who had struggled with fatigue and low energy for so long, regained his lively spirit almost immediately. "His energy, mood, and appetite returned almost overnight," said Karen. "It was incredible to see him come back to life."

During Ezra’s recovery in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital, Carissa was able to visit him and witness his transformation firsthand. "It was so heartwarming to see him laughing, joking, and just being his old self again," Carissa said.

By September 2024, Ezra was discharged from the hospital and sent to a nearby Ronald McDonald House to continue his recovery. Within two months, he was home with his family, catching up on school, playing with his siblings, and enjoying life once again.

A Lifelong Bond: Teacher, Student, and Family

As the days passed, the bond between Carissa and the Toczek family only grew stronger. Ezra, who had once been her student, now shared a deep and unbreakable connection with his life-saving teacher. On November 11, 2024, Ezra returned to Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital for a reunion with his care team, including Carissa.

"Ezra was so happy to be back," said Karen. "He called it 'his hospital' because it’s where he got better, where he met all his friends, and where he first met Carissa."

This emotional reunion was a testament to the power of organ donation and the incredible difference it can make in someone’s life.

The Power of Organ Donation: A Message of Hope

Carissa’s decision to donate a portion of her liver saved Ezra’s life and gave him a second chance. But beyond the life-saving impact of her gift, it also sends a powerful message about the importance of organ donation.

"As a teacher, I always wanted to make a difference in my students' lives," Carissa said. "But I never imagined that one day I would have the opportunity to save a life. It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done."

The Toczek family remains deeply grateful for Carissa’s generosity. "We are forever indebted to her," Karen said. "Not only did she give Ezra a new life, but she also gave our family hope."

Their story is a reminder of the incredible things that can happen when people act selflessly. The family hopes their story will inspire others to consider becoming organ donors and to understand just how powerful a single act of kindness can be.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The remarkable story of Carissa Fisher and Ezra Toczek is not just a tale of one teacher’s kindness; it’s a story about the power of organ donation, the importance of community, and the impact of selfless giving. It’s a call to all of us to consider the possibility of becoming an organ donor, as it has the potential to save lives and bring hope to those who need it most.