Preschool teacher donates her liver to save former student's life — cue the happy tears

A preschool teacher, Carissa Fisher, donated her liver to save the life of one of her former students, Ezra Toczek. The remarkable deed won everyone's hearts online. Ezra was diagnosed with liver failure after a birth-related condition gradually worsened over time. In February last year, the young boy was put on the transplant list.

A month later, in March, when Fisher found out about her former student's health condition, she, without informing anyone, applied to become a living donor and traveled to New York City for the necessary tests. After weeks of anticipation, on May 24, Fisher received the happy news that she was approved to donate part of her liver to Ezra, as reported by the New York Post. Fisher wasted no time in delivering the wonderful news to the Toczek family. The very next day, she visited them, bringing along some stuffed animals, balloons, and a sign. As reported by People magazine, the teacher said, “You never know whose life you are going to be changing. It made me very happy to see both of them happy.”

Ezra’s mother, Karen Toczek, was over the moon. She said, “We are completely overwhelmed with her kindness and generosity and sacrifice, and it keeps hitting us unexpectedly that it’s really happening and we’re really going to be able to move forward, and we’re so grateful.” Sharing the news on social media, Karen wrote, “My brain literally couldn’t process what I was reading until she said it out loud. Miss Carissa is a perfect match! I can’t even begin to express our gratitude!” She added, “The tears keep coming, and though I knew we’d be relieved to get the news eventually, I had no idea just how it would hit me!”

Karen added, “He has struggles, fatigue, sleep difficulties, and days where he just isn’t feeling well, but overall, he is a trooper and finds joy every day.” On social media, she also set up a GoFundMe page to support her son's transplant. Fisher also launched her own GoFundMe campaign to cover the costs of travel, food, accommodation, and other expenses for herself and the caregivers who supported her throughout the donation process.

Netizens lauded the preschool teacher and wished for Ezra’s good health. On YouTube, a person, @MeNotYou72, commented, “As a preschool teacher, they become your kids…they really do. All good teachers feel this way when we have your children with us. I wouldn’t hesitate for any of my former children either.” Another person, @Willipik, chimed, “This is the most beautiful display of love!! Thank you to this angel amongst us.” Similarly, @sadcorpssssss also praised the teacher for her kindness and cheered for Ezra, penning, “Carissa is the best!!!! Go Ezra!!!”