This Dad Lost 30 Pounds In Order to Become a Liver Donor for His Newborn Son, and Yes, This Story Has a Happy Ending

One selfless father proved that he’d do anything for his son. When Sean Kelley learned that he’d need to lose weight in order to be an organ donor for his newborn son Sawyer, he didn’t waste any time. 

Baby Sawyer was diagnosed with Alagille syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes liver damage, at birth, and he was in dire need of a liver transplant. 

Sean’s wife Josie did not qualify as a living donor for her son because she also has Alagille syndrome. 

The New York-based dad seemed to be the only viable candidate and knew that he couldn’t let his weight get in the way of saving his son. 

Sean Kelley: This Dad Lost 30 Pounds In Order to Become a Liver Donor for His Newborn Son
Credit: UPMC

“There’s no reason that I can’t get down to the weight that I need to see if could I could be a match as well,” Sean shared with Good Morning America. “I didn’t know if I would be a match for Sawyer or not, but to even go through the evaluation process, I had to get my weight down to a certain point.”

The motivated dad overhauled his lifestyle and began regular exercise. His dedication paid off, as he dropped 30 pounds and qualified for the necessary testing. 

Luckily, he proved to be a perfect match, and the transplant surgery took place in December. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: YouTuber Brittani Boren Leach Reveals Her Late Son’s Organs Saved Two Baby’s Lives, Says They Are Praying to Meet Them One Day

Sean Kelley: This Dad Lost 30 Pounds In Order to Become a Liver Donor for His Newborn Son
Credit: Sean Kelley

Thanks to a successful transplant, doctors predict that baby Sawyer will live a much healthier life and be able to withstand any future infections. 

The family hopes that their story will inspire others to consider becoming living organ donors. 

“It’s an incredible thing to even consider being evaluated and going through the process to see if you could be a match for somebody,” added Sean.

About Mamas Uncut

Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.

-->

Leave a Comment

Scroll to Top