From the Family of Ben Kielbasa-

Over the past few months Ben has been hospitalized to treat some gastrointestinal pain and discomfort. After having his gallbladder removed in an emergency surgery, other issues were discovered in his abdomen. As a result of these discoveries, Ben was diagnosed with end stage liver disease. Ultimately, during an episode of great pain, paramedics were called and Ben was rushed to the University of Chicago for more specialized liver care.

He was admitted to the ICU and began to receive emergency care to address internal bleeding, kidney failure and a number of other necessary interventions. During this time, his condition was assessed and he was listed as eligible for an immediate liver transplant. His care team listed him and informed us that Ben had about 24-48 hours before he'd not be healthy enough to undergo surgery. Ben was matched at 8pm on Tuesday, November 28th with a donated liver. He was then prepped overnight for an early morning surgery the next day.

After about 6 hours in the OR, with the new liver hooked up, Ben's body could no longer withstand the trauma and the surgical team decided to postpone the remainder of the procedure. He was taken to a surgical ICU unit where he was given more acute care to keep his body systems working and allow the new liver to support the rest of his organs that had been damaged due to the poor liver. Within a few hours of surgery, Ben's numbers started trending in the right direction. Ben returned to the OR on Thursday, November 30th for a surgical wash out and to have his body systems observed.

Ben will go to the OR once more (hopefully!) on Monday, December 4th to have his organs looked at and the hope is that they will be able to close his abdomen at that time. If that is the case on Monday, he has his best chance at moving from 'critical' to 'recovery'. Once the recovery phase begins, he will spend about 5 more days in the surgical ICU before being moved to a recovery floor for around 30 days.

As you can only imagine, this has taken a major toll on all of Ben’s loved ones. He is husband to Sarah and dad to Esme (4) and June (2). Sarah remains by his side, along with his parents, Anne & Jack. With Ben unable to work his job as an IBEW electrician, and Sarah taking time away from her job as a fourth grade teacher, we would like to alleviate their anxiety over finances. All documentation for disability has been submitted, but that process takes time before any benefits kick in.

As a family, we are all lending our support to Ben, Sarah, Esme and June. We have started this GoFundMe campaign to further supplement their needs during this challenging time. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated, distributed directly to Ben & Sarah, and used for any immediate expenses they have.

Ben, Sarah, Esme and June are forever grateful for everyone’s prayers and support during these scary times. We will provide updates as they become available.