Liver transplant for my dad

 My dad many years ago was diagnosed with hepatitis C, an incurable disease that stays dormant for decades before showing symptoms. He was diagnosed early, and we did all we could to suppress the virus, going through with all the recommended treatments, It was under control, until it wasn’t. Little over 2 years ago suddenly his condition took a turn for the worst, in a matter of weeks he went from stable and in control to exhibiting end stage liver disease symptoms. Today only 25% of his liver is functional, the rest given in to liver cirrhosis. As more of the liver is damaged the harder it gets for his body to perform basic functions. Detoxification and digestion are only 2 of the 500+ vital roles the liver carries out in the body.   2 days ago, my dad was hospitalized for symptoms associated with his infected liver; ascites, kidney and stomach issues, and diabetes, Immune deficiency. Pills and injections can only supplement so many of the liver’s functions, in the end he needs a liver transplant. With how expensive they are this simply isn’t something my family can afford, so I come to the community at large.

My dad grew up in Peshawar, Pakistan to a toxic family with emotionally and physically abusive parents, their negligence led him to never even finishing school. But in his teens he realized the life he had and what lay ahead, knowing this he in that moment decided he wasn’t going to live like this. My father left home at 16 to work abroad and make a name for himself, eventually discovering his passion for art and history. He became an archeologist and settled down with a family, swearing to give his children the childhood and opportunities he never had. He has always been an adventurer at heart, a lover of art and history much like his favorite fictional character Indiana Jones. His passion and his career allowed him to travel the world, see places beyond. Becoming a father never stopped him as I cannot count the trips he took me and my sister on. Around Asia and Europe, I travelled the world from the baby harness he carried me in on his back. 

 My dad has a long life ahead of him and many goals he still holds on to. He has yet to see his kids get married, to dance at their weddings, to see his children make names for themselves and even to see his grand kids. There is a lot he has to live for and everyday he spends with his condition decreases the chances of ever seeing those days. I remember once when I was younger, he told me there is nothing in this world he wouldn’t do for me and my sisters, and even though I was only 10 I absolutely without a doubt believed him, that’s the kind of person he is.  I grew up seeing him fight and struggle every day for the welfare of his family, his relentless drive to provide is a model for everyone that knows him. Today he’s sick but his efforts laid the foundation for the future of his children. He fulfilled his goal but I want to him live on and see the future he has worked so hard for.