Mother Donates Kidney Twice to Save Son’s Life
In a heartwarming reunion, a young child embraces the medical team instrumental in his life-saving journey.
DETROIT (FOX 2) – Witness an emotional reunion as a toddler expresses gratitude towards the medical staff who played a pivotal role in preserving his life.
At the tender age of 2, Micah’s medical odyssey commenced even before his birth.
“We were aware from the prenatal scan that Micah might encounter kidney complications,” recounted his father, Michael Guzick.
The apprehensions materialized when it was disclosed that Micah’s kidneys were abnormally large, indicative of a rare kidney ailment.
“After experiencing two miscarriages prior to Micah’s birth, the prospect of facing another loss was overwhelming,” shared Michael.
The inevitable reality dawned upon the family when it became apparent that Micah would require a kidney transplant.
“We were prepared for the eventuality that he would need a transplant,” acknowledged Michael.
Initially, Michael considered being the donor for his son until an unforeseen obstacle emerged in the form of kidney stones.
However, the quest for a suitable donor concluded close to home – with Micah’s mother, Audra, stepping forward.
The very woman who brought Micah into the world bestowed upon him the ultimate Gift of Life.
“I was filled with anticipation. The prospect of undergoing surgery had never seemed so exhilarating,” expressed Audra. “I would give him every part of me, without hesitation.”
Having resided in North Carolina at the time of Micah’s birth, the family returned to Michigan seeking familial support and medical expertise available at Henry Ford Health, where Audra underwent the surgical procedure. Micah’s operation took place at Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit.
“Everything appears to be healing remarkably well, with a soft belly and a beautifully healed scar,” remarked Dr. Amrish Jain.
During a recent visit to Children’s Hospital for Micah’s check-up, nearly six months post-transplant, the family reflected on the critical juncture they had navigated.
“Micah was on the brink of requiring dialysis,” disclosed Dr. Amrish Jain, Medical Director of the Kidney Transplant Program at Children’s Hospital of Michigan. “However, we devised a plan for Audra to undergo a living donor kidney transplant just in time. By transplanting one of Audra’s kidneys to Micah, we witnessed a significant improvement in his kidney function.”
In light of April being designated as Donate Life Month, Audra contemplates the potential outcome had a donor not been available.
“I am grateful to have been in a position to contribute, but not every family is as fortunate,” she acknowledged.
As this family celebrates their journey, they advocate for the significance of organ donation.
“It is crucial for individuals to indicate their willingness to be kidney donors by checking the box on their driver’s license,” emphasized Dr. Jain.
