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A 14-YEAR-OLD Carter High School pupil who suffers from a liver disease desperately needs a liver transplant.
Aidan Maddocks was diagnosed with biliary atresia at birth. The condition affects only one in 10 000 to 15 000 live births.
The disease causes liver damage and affects numerous processes that allow the body to function normally.
So far, his family have raised just over R74 000 towards their fundraising target through the crowdfunding platform BackaBuddy, but they still need R200 000 to cover costs of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town where Aidan has been meeting with a group of specialist doctors for the last 13 years.
After surgery Aidan will need to stay in hospital for a minimum of three months and his mother Carmen will need to take unpaid leave to be at her son’s side.
Aidan, who was given a life expectancy of only two years, surpassed all expectations placed on him. He is also top of his grade eight class, despite doctors predicting he would struggle through school.
Aidan’s liver is severely damaged and deteriorating at a rapid rate.
“The news of Aidan’s failing liver has shaken us, although we knew this day would come.
“As a parent there’s no way you can prepare for this emotional roller-coaster. The fact that things could change in an instant is very frightening,” added Maddocks.
Aiden needs a full transplant due to the extensive damage to his liver, meaning the match will need to come from a cadaver.
“As a parent you would do anything for your child, I felt hopeless hearing that my hands are tied and there’s nothing I can do to save my son from his condition.”
Maddocks described Aidan as a very gentle child.
“He is witty, loves joking around and has a fantastic sense of humour despite the challenges he’s had to overcome in his short life,” she said.
Maddocks said her family were very grateful for the support they had received thus far.
“We have been overwhelmed and humbled, not only by the financial contributions, but the prayers and words of encouragement we have received during a very difficult time in our lives.”
You can support Aidan at https://www.backabuddy.co.za/aidan-liver-transplant
