Human resources is all about people, and today I’m asking you to help save a life.

Houku Katagiri (Hou-chan) is a 2-year boy who lives in Mitaka, Tokyo. His father works for my employer, EMC Corporation.

In October 2008, he had sudden heart failure and was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy – an incurable disease that takes the lives of 50 percent of those afflicted within one year.

Hou-chan’s condition is serious, and a heart transplant is the only way to save his life.

Heart transplants for children are not permitted in Japan, where by law organ donors must be at least 15 years old. Hou-chan’s condition is deteriorating and he is currently hospitalized at Kyorin University Hospital. He needs a transplant operation as soon as possible.

Loma Linda University Hospital (located in the United States) will perform the life-saving surgery, but first Hou-chan’s family must secure the $1 million USD required to cover his estimated medical costs.

Learn what you can to help, and please help spread the word!