Two-year-old Kenyan boy becomes India’s youngest pancreatic donor at Chandigarh PGI, saves 4 lives

PTC Web Desk: In a groundbreaking act of generosity, a two-year-old boy from Kenya, Prosper, has become India's youngest pancreatic donor, helping transform the lives of four patients in need of critical organ transplants. Prosper’s selfless donation at PGIMER in Chandigarh marks the first case of organ donation by a foreign national in India and sets a milestone in the country’s organ donation history.

Prosper, who sustained severe injuries from an accidental fall on October 17, was rushed to PGIMER in critical condition. Despite the best efforts of medical teams, he was declared brain dead on October 26. Amid their heartbreaking loss, his parents, Jackline Diary and the family, made the courageous decision to donate his organs. This decision led to the successful transplantation of his pancreas and kidneys to two terminally ill patients, offering them a renewed chance at life through Simultaneous Pancreas & Kidney (SPK) transplant and a solo kidney transplant for another recipient. Prosper’s corneas were also donated, restoring sight to two persons. 

Prof Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, expressed his condolences to the grieving family and praised their decision. "This case underscores the immense significance of organ donation. Prosper’s family, in their moment of despair, chose to turn their sorrow into a gift of life for others," he said.

Prof Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent of PGIMER, confirmed the successful transplantation, which included the consent from the Kenya High Commission. The procedure also involved significant challenges due to the small size of the organs, particularly the pancreas and kidneys of such a young donor.

In a deeply emotional reflection, Prosper’s mother, Jackline, shared, “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.”