A family’s extraordinary decision transformed an unfathomable moment of grief into a ray of bravery, kindness, and spirit. A 15-year-old girl was deemed brain dead on April 4 after being admitted to CMRI on March 28 at 2:00 PM. Her family decided to donate her organs in a gesture that touched the entire city, turning their tragedy into a gift of life for others.

It brought hospitals in Kolkata together in a shared effort to honor her memory by granting others a second chance at life. The law of the land was followed in doing this. Her organs were distributed appropriately so that her aura would live on in the lives of people she has saved.

In a solemn homage to her and the courageous family who chose to find hope during the darkest moment, the young girl received the respect of a guard of honour at CMRI. In silence, the staff, doctors, and nurses saluted her—not as a donor, but as a hero.

Such tales demonstrate that love and compassion have the greatest impact in a world otherwise split by differences. In some cases, it even entails learning how to support those who are grieving. Many people will always carry the young girl’s legacy in their hearts and lives.

Priyanka Dutta