Tragic Turn to Life-Saving Gift
A two-year-old Kenyan boy, Lunda Kayumba, lovingly called Prosper, was declared brain dead on October 26 at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. His family’s choice to donate his organs has made him India’s youngest pancreatic donor, offering new hope to patients in critical need.
Organ Donation Brings Hope to Terminally Ill Patients
Prosper’s organs were transplanted into two terminally ill patients at PGIMER, with one patient receiving a simultaneous pancreas and kidney (SPK) transplant and another receiving a kidney. His corneas were also donated to restore sight for two visually impaired individuals, impacting four lives in total.
Family’s Decision to Donate
Prosper was admitted to PGIMER after a severe fall on October 17. Despite all medical efforts, he was declared brain dead nine days later. Overwhelmed with grief, his family made the compassionate choice to donate his organs. “Our hearts are broken, but knowing that Prosper’s organs will help others gives us peace,” his mother, Jackline Diary, shared.
Complexity of Transplants with Young Donors
Dr. Ashish Sharma, head of renal transplant surgery at PGIMER, highlighted the challenges of performing transplants on such young donors. “The small size of organs in young donors adds complexity, especially when performing a combined pancreas transplant,” he explained.
A Legacy of Hope and Healing
With the consent of Prosper’s family and clearance from the Kenya High Commission, PGIMER’s medical team successfully conducted the transplants, bringing new hope to patients in need and honoring Prosper’s memory.
