Quits soccer at 23 to save sick mother

Croatian Peric-Komsic’s choice makes the rounds

The story of Croatian soccer player Robert Peric-Komsic is making the rounds around the world: the 23-year-old striker of second-division club Cibalia Vinkovci made the decision to quit soccer to save the life of his ailing mother.

The young man donated 70 percent of his liver to save the woman, who had been struggling with an illness for several years. “Her life was in danger: her stomach was filling with water and it was a matter of days. The moment I realized that all other options were exhausted, I packed my bags and flew to Istanbul. My mission was clear, to treat my mother.”

Robert, who had remained the only compatible donor, explained that he is doing well, although he is unlikely to be able to return to competitive play: “All the tests are normal, the liver is almost completely regenerated. Me a hero? I did what anyone would have done. My mother gave me life and I extended it to her, she finally got a new life after 13 years of hard struggle.”