Sahyadri Hospitals, in collaboration with the DATRI Blood Stem Cell Donors Registry, organized a donor–recipient meet that brought together hundreds of attendees to highlight the importance of stem cell donation. The event marked a remarkable reunion between a Hyderabad-based donor, Mr. Rajesh (name changed), and twin sisters Aaradhya and Shruti (names changed), both diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) at 3.5 years old, whose lives were saved by his stem cell donation.
The gathering provided an opportunity for the families, medical professionals, and the community to witness the life-changing impact of stem cell donation and to encourage more registrations. The twins’ parents expressed their gratitude: “When both our daughters were diagnosed, it felt like our world had collapsed. One selfless act gave us back our children. We will remain forever grateful to our donor, DATRI, and Sahyadri Hospital.” The donor shared his emotions on meeting the sisters, saying, “I never imagined that my registration as a donor would save not one, but two lives. Seeing Aaradhya and Shruti healthy and smiling today is the most emotional moment of my life.”
Dr. Shashikant Apte, Director of Haematology at Sahyadri Hospitals, emphasized the broader significance: “This milestone is not just a medical success story but a message to society. Stem cell donation can transform despair into renewed hope.” Dr. Kannan Subramanian, Consultant Hematologist, remarked on the rarity of such a case, stating, “It is extremely rare for one donor’s stem cells to be sufficient for identical twins. This case highlights the importance of collaboration between registries and hospitals in delivering life-saving outcomes.”
Mr. Darasing Khurana, DATRI’s brand ambassador and Mr. India International 2017, reinforced the humanitarian aspect: “One donor saving two young lives is proof that stem cell donation is not just medicine, but humanity at its best.”
The event inspired many attendees to pledge as potential stem cell donors, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness and support. Mr. Aby Sam John, National Operations Head, South, DATRI, highlighted ongoing challenges: “Since its inception, DATRI has facilitated 1,645 blood stem cell donations and built a registry of over 6,18,973 registered donors. Yet, given India’s genetic diversity, finding the right match remains a major challenge. Every new registration strengthens the hope for families waiting for a lifesaving match.”
The donor–recipient meet served both as a celebration of survival and a platform to boost participation in stem cell donation, reflecting Sahyadri Hospital’s commitment to advancing complex transplants and fostering community engagement in this vital cause. The event reminded all present of the profound impact one donor’s kindness can have on many lives.
