Historic Organ Donation: Father Donates Kidney and Liver to 7-Year-Old Daughter
A 37-year-old Serbian citizen has made history by becoming the first person in Italy to donate two organs simultaneously during his lifetime. In a combined transplant, he donated a kidney and a portion of his liver to his 7-year-old daughter, Sofija, who had been suffering from a rare genetic disease. The successful surgery was performed at the Pope John XXIII hospital, and both father and daughter have been discharged and are recovering well.
A Rare Genetic Disease and the Need for a Transplant
Sofija had been battling a rare genetic disease that affected both her liver and kidneys, forcing her to undergo dialysis from the age of 4. Her condition required her to undergo home peritoneal dialysis for 13 to 18 hours a day, and later, she had to resort to hemodialysis, which limited her movements and forced her to attend dialysis sessions every other day. The development of liver cirrhosis further complicated her situation, making an isolated renal transplant impossible.
A Selfless Act of Love
The father’s decision to donate his organs to his daughter was a selfless act of love, driven by the desire to give his child a second chance at a normal life. As he explained, “It is a joy today to see that our daughter has regained her appetite and desire to play. Before, she would get tired very easily and stop playing to lie down to rest. Now she is becoming like all the other children: lively, joyful, full of energy, finally without catheters which were necessary for dialysis. Now she will be able to start school, carefree like her peers.”
A Rigorous Transplant Process
The process of a transplant from a living donor in Italy is rigorous and aimed at guaranteeing both the donor’s and the recipient’s well-being. The suitability assessment of the couple was followed by the favorable opinion of the Third Party Regional Commission and finally the authorization of the Bergamo Prosecutor’s Office. The hospital explains that the transplant was a complex procedure that required careful evaluation and planning to ensure the best possible outcome for both the donor and the recipient.
The successful transplant has given Sofija a new lease on life, and she will be able to lead a regular life, free from the constraints of dialysis. Her father’s selfless act has not only saved his daughter’s life but has also given her a chance to experience childhood without the burden of illness. For more information on this remarkable story, visit Here