OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Six-year-old Liam Maine is a typical little boy who love sharks and has lots of energy.
But when you look at the energetic boy, you also see a long scar.
According to his father, Brian Maine, Liam has three heart conditions: major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs), pulmonary atresia and double inlet left ventricle, which affects the way his heart and lungs function together.
Doctors say his heart lacks oxygen, and blood struggles to pump to certain parts of his heart. So far in his young life, he has had five surgeries.
"It's a little scary sometimes," Liam said.
In March, Liam will undergo his sixth open heart surgery at Stanford University in California. His parents said the department of surgery has some of the best heart surgeons in the world.
"The open chest (surgeries) are super difficult, especially when he comes out with tubes, wires everywhere," Brian Maine said.
Maine will take time off work to stay home with his two daughters while his wife and son are in California for a month.
Between the time away from his job and all of the major surgeries, the bills are racking up.
"He's our six million dollar man over here," Maine said.
To help with some of the expenses, his mother-in-law set up a GoFundMe page for the family.
"The money will not only help us pay for the surgery, but also to provide living expenses," Maine said.
The father says no matter how much money is raised, the family is grateful for the community that has rallied around them.
"Just how good people can be, just how generous people can be is just a huge blessing," Maine said.
