As a parent, there is nothing harder than watching your child fight battles that most people will never have to face. Our son, Shakih Abdussamee Jr., has been dealing with pain, hospital visits, and ongoing health challenges since he was just 3 years old. Now, as he approaches his 11th birthday, he continues to show a level of strength and resilience that inspires us every single day.

Shakih is more than his condition—he’s a bright, loving, and courageous young boy who deserves the chance to live a full and healthy life. At this point in his journey, he is in need of a kidney transplant, and we have partnered with COTA to help raise money to assist with expenses associated with this life-changing procedure.

We are reaching out with humility and hope. Any contribution to COTA for Shakih, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to giving our son the future he deserves. If you’re unable to give, we completely understand—sharing this message and keeping Shakih in your prayers means just as much to us.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for standing with our family during this difficult time. ❤️

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.