Parents Praying For New Liver For Boy Desperately In Need Of Transplant
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Since he entered the world, 2-year-old Lucas Goeller's been fighting the good fight in an effort to stay alive.
"He's so strong and he's brave, and he's loving, and we couldn't really ask for anything else," said Jess Goeller, Lucas's mom.
Lucas has endured liver disease. He's in desperate need of a whole liver transplant, and this week he was back in Children's Hospital battling a potentially deadly infection.
"There's been too many times we walked down the hall to the procedure room and the operating room; too many to count," Jess said.
On Thursday, he battled through another procedure.
"As soon as he saw us, it was, 'Mommy, it was nuts,'" said Lucas's mom. "Rick and I just looked at each other with a sigh of relief."
Lucas's search for a liver is now a regional mission. Lamar Advertising donated billboards to help out.
"Rick and I are so thankful," Jess said. "I think forever they'll be our friends."
Lucas has a Facebook page, and a GoFundMe campaign is underway. It's been overwhelming for the young parents.
"That's amazing, the amount of love they have for a stranger," Jess said.
But love is one thing, a liver is quite another. Lucas needs a transplant and soon.
"Last year he was given a year to live," Lucas's mom says. "Rick and I don't want to ask right now. We just know he's not doing as well as he has been and we can see him sliding; so, it's time to do something about it."
If you would like to help Lucas, visit the links below:
For now Rick and Jess keep praying and drawing strength from the fragile little fighter who holds their hearts.
"I look to him for strength. We kinda just pull each other along. He could be hanging on by a thread, but they throw you a line," says Rick Goeller, Lucas's father said. "Little things, little kisses, little smiles, let's you know the spirit is still there. It gives you the strength to keep pushing."
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter
