Daughter donates her liver to save her Dad’s Life

Hi! I’m Alyssa Cop. I met Melanie Shields (daughter of Joseph “Bucky” McCall) 19 years ago at work. We both work in special education and over the years we have become life long friends. Her story to save her Dad’s life is inspiring, emotional and selfless.

This is Bucky’s one and only chance. A few years ago Joseph McCall (everyone calls him Bucky) was diagnosed with end stage liver disease. As it progressed quickly you’d never know his internal struggle since he was often found at his grandchildren’s basketball practices, football games and dance recitals. With often emergent trips to the hospital for infusions, the next day he would be found at work with a smile.

When his team of doctors suggested a transplant the thought of finding someone who was a perfect match seemed overwhelming. However, God is good, as they discovered his daughter Melanie met all of the criteria.

She is the perfect match. She is the one.

On the morning of August 31, 2023 Melanie and her father Bucky will undergo simultaneous surgeries each having their own team of doctors, nurses and care unit. To say the least getting to this point in the game has been challenging, difficult and emotional for the family, but for Melanie, the chance to save her Dad’s life has never been a question.

She will be left with 34% of her liver, but her Dad will gain 66%.

She will undergo a long intense surgery, but will gain the opportunity to change her Dad’s quality of life.

Both will be in the hospital between a week and ten days, but there, they will gain rest and care.

After being released from the hospital they will embark on a new journey, but both Melanie and Bucky are willing to fight.

Though this journey has many emotions wrapped into it, having support from family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and strangers is exactly the driving force to help support Melanie and her Dad.

Thank you for all that you can give to help encourage, love and donate to them as this will be a small piece to ease their mind.