Froedtert Hospital nurse donates liver to save 8-year-old boy

 

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A local nurse is credited with saving an 8-year-old's life after the healthy boy suddenly became sick.

Doctors at Children's Hospital learned an aggressive virus was attacking Brayden Auten's liver. 

He urgently needed a liver transplant.

"It was absolutely terrifying to not know how much time you have left with your child," said Brayden's dad, James Auten.

Word spread to Froedtert Hospital, where ICU nurse Cami Loritz offered to donate a part of her own liver to save Brayden's life. 

She turned out to be a perfect match. 

"He would have died," Loritz said. "I don't think that's fair for any 8-year-old."

The transplant was a success. At a recent check-up, Brayden was told he could start playing sports again. 

He also took a moment to give his favorite nurse a big hug.