Dad donates part of liver to save son’s life

Little Muhammed Ali Tariq has been poorly since his birth 18 months ago but after the liver donation from his dad, Tariq Mushtaq, he has a new lease of life.

Proud dad Tariq (37), who works in Burnley, explained: “He was ill when he was born and he was jaundiced in birth. His condition was picked up in detail after seven weeks.”

Back in early December the two had their operations with part of Tariq’s liver being removed and transplanted in Muhammed.

Tariq explained: “He came back home last week. He’s doing very well – the project is fantastic. His recovery has been marvellous.”

Muhammed had suffered liver disease and needed a new liver and, after consulting with doctors, his father agreed to donate part of his own.

Tariq had a six-and-a-half hour operation, in which part of his liver was removed, at Leeds General Infirmary.

He explained: “They took 20% of my liver. The operations took place at the same time, but my son’s was an eleven- and-a-half hour operation.”

Tariq, who is a former pupil of Walverden Primary School and Walton High School in Nelson, now works in customer service with Fuel Card Services in Burnley.

Hesaid: “I’m doing well but I’m not fully fit yet. I hope to make a full recovery very soon. Doctors have been pleased with Muhammed’s progress and are confident he will be okay – absolutely!

“It has been a tough 18 month for us all, he’s been quite ill. It’s a message to everyone to never give up.

“This story may offer hope to people who suffer from a life-threatening illness. “I’m overjoyed with everything and the level of support we’ve got.

“The NHS has been amazing with us we can’t thank the medical teams enough.”