Countless stories show how a father loves his daughter selflessly, without any limitations. But Dennie is the lucky man whose daughter, Tessa, loves him more than her life. She is proud of how she has been daddy’s girl even after adulthood, when children look forward to moving out and building an independent life. For Tessa, her dad has not just played the role of a fantastic father, but also a best friend, a mentor, and a superhero!
While children have their favourite heroes from movies and TV shows, Tessa’s superhero has always been Dennie and will forever be irreplaceable! All that she remembers are good memories from her childhood, how she has always seen Dennie work day and night to provide for the family and fulfill the wishes of each member, giving up all that he probably dreamt of. Tessa had pre-decided how, without any second thought, she would give Dennie his kidney if she got a chance. She did!
Dennie was in his early 30s when his diagnosis of Focal Segmental Glomeruloclerosis was confirmed. The condition can be fatal as it slowly and gradually scars the kidneys and leads to their failure. Tessa was four when this happened, and it was clear that in the next decade, he would need to get a transplant. Who knew the donor was already present and ready to do it for Daddy?
In 2010, the doctors told the family how the kidneys had been severely damaged and worked no more than twenty percent. This was when Tessa’s aunt, Dennie’s biological sister, stepped in and was considered the perfect match. Thus, Dennie was on Dialysis for three months until in September 2010, he received her kidney.
After the transplant, it felt like things would be normal again, and the family was free of worries as it was a success; however, the peace lasted for only five years. In 2015, the disease had already been attacking the new kidney, so this time, a new donor was required. Tessa’s mother wanted to be the donor; however, neither the blood type nor the antibodies were compatible, so Tessa decided to get the tests done. On 5th May, she got the news that it was a match, and after multiple tests from CT scans, X-rays, bloodwork, and a 24-hour urine test, the date for surgery was decided.
7th March was the day Tessa could finally do something for the man who had sacrificed his life to provide for the family. Not just this, it would also be National Kidney Day and International Women’s Day. Empowering transplant! Wasn’t it?
Till the surgery date arrived, Tessa went through multiple emotions. At 7:30 a.m., Tessa’s surgery began, while Dennie’s began at 9:30 a.m. Throughout, her dad kept watching her with eyes of love, which showed how worried he was for his little girl to be fine. When Tessa woke up, she only asked if Dad was okay, and thankfully, it was a success! Urine was produced immediately after the surgery, indicating the transplant’s success. The moment they walked into each other’s rooms to check up, it was emotional every time.
Tessa was discharged two days before Dennie and had to be wheeled out, whereas on Saturday, Dennie managed to walk towards the car with pride and excellent strength. Tessa feels lucky that her dad carries a part of her, and she has a scar she loves. While children do not get to do much for their parents, Tessa was thankful to be the chosen one, as Dennie’s love and how he raised his little girl were bliss!
