Father Gives Part of His Liver to Save Baby Son Born With Rare Life-Threatening Disease

For one New York father, his birthday became an opportunity to give his baby boy something far more precious than any present: a second chance at life.

Brian Carstens, 28, donated part of his liver to his infant son Benjamin after doctors diagnosed the little boy with a rare genetic disorder that threatened his survival.

A Frightening Diagnosis Just Days After Birth

Benjamin began experiencing serious health problems shortly after his birth in the fall of 2024.

He struggled to eat, and abnormal newborn screening results revealed dangerously elevated ammonia levels in his blood.

Doctors eventually diagnosed him with ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, a rare metabolic condition that prevents the body from properly eliminating ammonia.

Benjamin required intensive medical treatment, including dialysis, to stabilize his condition.

Living With the Fear of Another Medical Emergency

Although treatment helped stabilize Benjamin, his parents faced the terrifying possibility that another life-threatening episode could happen unexpectedly.

Doctors explained that medication and a specialized diet could help manage the condition, but a liver transplant offered a potential cure for its metabolic effects.

For Brian and Benjamin’s mother, Karla Hernandez Garcia, finding a way to protect their son became their greatest priority.

A Father’s Extraordinary Birthday Gift

Brian volunteered to become a living liver donor for his little boy.

The transplant was scheduled for August 18, 2025, which happened to be Brian’s birthday.

Instead of celebrating with gifts or a party, the young father underwent surgery to donate part of his liver to Benjamin.

His decision reflected a parent’s determination to do everything possible to give his child a healthier future.

A New Chapter for Baby Benjamin

Nine months after the transplant, Benjamin was reported to be healthy and thriving.

His family shared their experience in the hope of encouraging greater awareness of rare metabolic disorders and living organ donation.

For Brian, the decision was never something he regretted. He told PEOPLE that he would make the same choice again without hesitation.

What began as a frightening medical journey ultimately became an extraordinary story of parental love, medical care and a little boy’s second chance at life.

Source: PEOPLE – Exclusive interview with Brian Carstens and his family.