Young women save lives of ailing brothers by donating organs

NEW DELHI: "Usually brothers give gifts to their sisters on Rakshabandhan or promise to save their lives, but I did it for my brother," said Priyanka Singh (23) from Uttar Pradesh, who saved her elder brother's life by donating one of her kidneys.
The transplantation was done at Primus Super Speciality in the city on August 10. Both of them have been discharged from the hospital after the successful transplantation, said doctors.
Priyanka's generous act has strengthened their bond as siblings.Expressing happiness, Harendra Singh (35) said his sister is his pillar of strength and her gift is precious.
According to doctors, the transplant was challenging as the donor had three renal arteries, making it a complex case.
"Kidneys with multiple arteries are more technically challenging to transplant and are associated with an increased risk of vascular complications and delayed graft function," said doctors, adding that both Priyanka and Harendra are doing well now.
Harendra, who used to work as a salesman, was diagnosed with advanced kidney failure in December 2022.
Due to frequent visits to the hospital for dialysis, he had to give up his job. His company couldn't provide enough paid leave for the thrice-a-week dialysis sessions, he said.
The whole experience caused them extreme distress and anxiety. That's when Priyanka, who is pursuing graduation, decided to donate one of her kidneys to him.
Dr PP Varma, head of nephrology, and Dr Mehak Singla, consultant nephrology, at Primus Super Speciality Hospital, said that contrary to prevailing beliefs, donating a kidney does not impact a woman's ability to conceive.
"Numerous women who have donated a kidney have gone on to have successful pregnancies, with no adverse effects. It is entirely acceptable for women who have donated a kidney to plan pregnancies," they said.
Faridabad sister donates 65% of her liver
Another case that speaks volumes about the bond between sisters and brothers is that of Manoj Kumar from Faridabad. Three months ago, his 33-year-old younger sister saved his life by donating 65% of her liver to him.
The successful transplant was done at PSRI Hospital and both of them have recovered fully, said doctors. The donor was discharged after a week, while the patient was discharged after two weeks.
Doctors said the patient was admitted with complaints of abdominal distension, altered sensorium, and deep jaundice. A team of doctors diagnosed it as a case of cirrhosis with liver failure.
Dr Manoj Gupta, senior consultant and head of department, liver transplant and gastrointestinal surgery, conducted the transplant.
"It was very heartwarming to see three sisters of the patient volunteering to donate a part of their liver to save their brother. After conducting tests, the youngest sister was found to be most suitable for the required liver donation. Even though she had a burn injury in her arm, she did not hesitate," said Dr Gupta.