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Chandigarh, India — In a poignant story of hope amid tragedy, two-year-old Prosper Lunda Kayumba from Kenya has become a beacon of light for those in need of organ transplants. Following his untimely demise, Prosper’s family made the brave decision to donate his organs, marking a historic first as he became the youngest pancreatic donor in India. His selfless act has granted a renewed opportunity for health and happiness to four terminally ill patients, including two who received simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplants and two others who regained their sight through cornea transplantation.
On October 17, Prosper suffered a severe injury from an accidental fall at home and was rushed to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. Despite the valiant efforts of the medical team, he was declared brain-dead on October 26, after a ten-day struggle for survival. Faced with immense grief, Prosper’s family chose to donate his organs, leaving an indelible legacy and touching the lives of others.
Prof. Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, expressed heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and emphasized the critical importance of organ donation. “This case highlights the extraordinary potential for kindness, turning a moment of despair into a precious gift of life for others,” he stated. The family’s decision to donate Prosper’s organs stands as a powerful reminder of compassion in the face of tragedy.
Prosper’s mother, Jackline Diary, shared her sorrow while highlighting the family’s resolve to keep her son’s spirit alive through this act of kindness. “While our hearts are shattered into a million pieces, we find solace in knowing that Prosper’s organs will give life to others in pain. This act of kindness is our way of keeping his spirit alive, and I hope it brings peace to our family and hope to those who are suffering,” she said, holding back tears.
The surgical team at PGIMER, led by Prof. Ashish Sharma, faced unique challenges in the transplantation process. “Transplants from young donors present significant difficulties, not only in terms of surgical technique but also in navigating the emotional landscape surrounding such a significant loss,” he explained. The delicate separation of two kidneys from a young donor and the simultaneous pancreas transplant for one recipient posed complex challenges, but the family’s wishes motivated the medical team to maximize the benefits for those in need.
Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent at PGIMER and Nodal Officer for the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (ROTTO) in the North, shared details about the successful transplants. After receiving the family’s consent and the necessary clearances from the Kenya High Commission, the medical team performed a simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant for one recipient, while another patient received a separate kidney transplant. Additionally, the transplantation of Prosper’s corneas will allow two individuals who were previously corneal blind to regain their sight.
The pastor accompanying the family during this difficult time described Prosper’s donation as a testament to their compassion and resilience. “In the face of such sorrow, we chose a path of love. Prosper’s donation is a testament to our belief that even in death, our child can continue to bring joy to others, providing them with a chance at life,” he remarked.
Prosper’s legacy not only highlights the critical need for organ donation but also embodies the profound impact that one small life can have on the lives of many. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of giving, even in the darkest of times.
