In an extraordinary testament to humanity, 12-year-old Umang Galada from Kolkata became a lifeline for others even in death— his organs breathing life and vision into those on the brink of despair.
Umang, a bright eighth-grade student from south Kolkata’s Alipore, had been battling a severe kidney disorder since early childhood. Despite enduring countless dialysis sessions, his condition deteriorated.
In a profound act of maternal sacrifice, his mother, Jyoti, chose to donate one of her kidneys in the hope of saving her son. On March 28, both mother and child were admitted to a private hospital in Ekbalpur for the transplant surgery. The operation was initially successful and for a few precious days, hope flickered in the Galada household.
But fate, often cruel and incomprehensible, intervened.
Umang suddenly suffered a catastrophic brain hemorrhage. Oxygen failed to reach his brain, though his heart still beat. As his condition worsened rapidly, doctors declared him brain dead on a Tuesday that would change multiple lives forever.
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Devastated but driven by a higher purpose, Umang’s parents made a decision few can summon the strength for in such grief. They chose to donate their son’s organs, hoping to offer others the second chance that had eluded their own child.
Upon assessment, the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (ROTTO) confirmed that Umang’s liver and eyes were viable for donation. The decision was swift. His liver was urgently flown to Mumbai, where it was transplanted into the body of an 8-year-old girl clinging to life. His eyes were also donated, gifting the priceless gift of sight to two individuals.
Before his final journey, the young boy was honoured with a posthumous 'guard of honor' at the hospital— an emotional tribute to a soul whose final act was one of unparalleled generosity.
Umang now holds the poignant distinction of being Bengal’s youngest deceased organ donor.
In the heart of this tragedy lies an extraordinary legacy. A child, whose own life was cut short, now lives on through others. His family’s decision to turn their sorrow into service is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, human compassion can illuminate the way forward.
Umang's story is not just one of loss—it is a story of bravery, sacrifice and hope. A reminder that heroes come in all ages.
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