In an extraordinary testament to a mother’s love and the possibilities of modern medicine, 80-year-old mother Darshana Jain selflessly donated her kidney to her 59-year-old son, Rajesh, who was suffering from end-stage renal disease.
Rajesh who had been battling end-stage renal disease and was on dialysis for the past six months with limited donor options, found hope when his elderly mother stepped forward as a willing donor. Given her advanced age and initial concerns regarding the feasibility of the procedure, after a thorough medical evaluation and assessment, she was found to be a suitable donor.
The ground breaking transplant was successfully performed by Dr. HS Bhatyal, Senior Director & HOD – Urology & Renal Transplant, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital along with his multidisciplinary team of doctors. “This case highlights the possibilities of modern medicine and the indomitable spirit of a mother. Despite age being a challenge, the surgery was executed seamlessly. Darshana Jain was discharged on the fourth postoperative day, and the recipient made a remarkable recovery, and was discharged on the sixth day post-transplant,” said Dr. HS Bhatyal.
““Age alone should not be a barrier to organ donation if the donor is healthy and fully informed. This surgery sets an important precedent in the field of transplant medicine,” he added.
Kidney donation, a life saving act
Kidney donation is a life-saving act where a healthy person donates one of their kidneys to someone with kidney failure. Since humans can live with one kidney, donors can lead a normal life after surgery. Living donors are usually family members or close relatives, ensuring better compatibility. Deceased donation occurs when a kidney is taken from a brain-dead person. Kidney transplants improve the recipient’s quality of life, reducing dependency on dialysis. However, donors must undergo medical tests to ensure safety. In India, organ donation is regulated by the Transplantation of Human Organs Act (THOA) to prevent illegal trade.
To create awareness on kidney donation, World Kidney Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of March to raise awareness about kidney health and the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of kidney diseases. This global campaign highlights risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, which contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD). It emphasizes the need for regular check-ups, a healthy diet, hydration, and an active lifestyle to maintain kidney function.
