DEARBORN — About 700 people attended a dinner for Moe Haidar, a 21-year-old who has been suffering on dialysis for five years, and is in desperate need of a kidney transplant. The event was held at Greenfield Manor here Wednesday. 

“We were so overwhelmed by the community’s support. I am so proud to be a part of this community, because we really do reach out to each other in times of need,” said Ali Charara, who’s Haidar’s uncle. 

Charara, left, with Haidar.

Prior to the event, only 100 tickets were sold. Charara says he was surprised to see how many people ended up attending and purchasing tickets afterwards. 

The dinner was not a fundraiser, and was organized in an effort to raise more awareness on Haidar’s crucial need for a kidney. He’s seeking a blood type A or O match kidney, and guests were encouraged to get tested to find out whether they’re potential matches. 

The costs of the tickets went to cover the expenses for the dinner, and the remaining proceeds will be donated to an orphanage of Haidar’s choice. 

During the event Haidar’s family members spoke about what they’ve gone through during the whole ordeal. Haidar, also spoke about the challenges he’s been through because of his illness, in addition to his brother, who was also in need of a kidney transplant, received one, and is reportedly doing well.

“My sister has really gone through a lot with her two boys. It’s taken a toll on her. We are a close family and we support each other, and all the brothers and sisters are sticking together,” Charara said. 

Haidar’s family hopes the event has prompted more people to go out and test to find out whether they’re blood type A or O matches.  To find out whether you’re a kidney match for Haidar, contact Hassina Albana, 313.916.5987 or Pamela McMath, 313.916.3823.