In South Lyon, a young family is clinging to faith and hope as their 1-year-old son fights for his life — and their story has now touched hearts all the way to Ford Field.
Little Isaac Calkins is full of smiles, cuddles, and warmth. But behind those bright eyes lies a difficult journey. Isaac was born with a rare genetic disorder called ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, which prevents his liver from removing harmful toxins from his body.
His mom, Carrie, says their lives changed completely just months after his birth.
“The past eight months have been so hard,” she said softly. “We’ve spent more time in hospitals than at home. But Isaac never stops smiling.”
When he was only four months old, Isaac received a life-saving liver transplant. For a while, things seemed to be going well — until his tiny body began rejecting the new organ. Despite the best care at Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, the family found themselves back where they started.
After another evaluation this summer, doctors determined Isaac would need a second liver transplant. On October 3, he was officially re-listed, this time hoping for a living donor — someone between the ages of 21 and 55 who’s healthy and willing to give a portion of their liver.
“It could save his life,” Carrie said through tears. “The amazing thing is, the liver grows back in a few months. It’s the ultimate act of love.”
Isaac’s big brother, 8-year-old Logan, wanted to help in his own way. He sent a heartfelt message to Detroit Lions star Aidan Hutchinson, asking him to share Isaac’s story — and the NFL player did just that, reposting it on his Instagram story for thousands to see.
“We were so touched,” Carrie said. “To know that someone like Aidan took the time to help spread Isaac’s story—it means everything.”
Now, the family is using social media to find a hero. Their pages, titled “Isaac OTC Warrior,” have become a place of hope, prayer, and connection for people who want to help.
“I just want to see my baby grow up,” Carrie said. “To play, to run, to live a normal, happy life. I know God has a plan for him — and I believe the right person will come forward.”
For now, Isaac keeps smiling, surrounded by love, prayer, and a community that’s growing bigger every day — one post, one share, and one act of kindness at a time.
