Source: The Times of India
Sibling Bonds That Heal: Gujarat Brothers and Sisters Saving Lives Together
Ahmedabad, August 2025 — In a heartwarming display of familial love and unity, several sibling pairs across Gujarat have stepped forward in unprecedented numbers to donate much-needed stem cells and kidneys to save their brothers and sisters. These exceptional cases, combining selflessness and medical progress, shine a spotlight on the enduring strength of the sibling bond.
At the crux of this wave of life-saving generosity is the story of 23-year-old Dhara, a leukemia patient residing abroad. Despite the estranged relationship between her family’s two branches, Dhara’s half‑brother, Aman, emerged as a perfect haploidentical match. After undergoing the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) test, Aman donated his stem cells, culminating in a successful bone marrow transplant and complete recovery for Dhara (India Today, The Times of India).
This remarkable success is just one of many. In Ahmadabad, a 55‑year‑old woman battling acute myeloid leukemia received stem cells from her elder brother—now enjoying a healthy life. In another similarly hopeful case, Sangeeta (48), who was struggling with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, got her shot at recovery thanks to her brother Rajesh, whose genetic match and unwavering support helped her pull through (The Times of India).
Medical experts point out why such stories are becoming more common. Siblings are often the preferred donors for bone marrow transplants (BMT) because of their higher HLA compatibility rates. Advances in medical technology and expertise have also made transplants safer and more effective, leading to an uptick in these procedures over recent years (The Times of India).
But the generosity extends beyond stem cell donations. At the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Centre (IKDRC) in Ahmedabad, data from the past three years reveals a significant gender disparity among kidney donors: 20 sisters donated kidneys to their brothers, while only three brothers did the same for their sisters. One standout story involved three sisters who willingly volunteered to donate their kidneys to save their brother, Kiran Patel. The best match, Sushilaben, ultimately carried out the life-saving procedure—with emotional and logistical support from her husband and family (India Today).
These stories affirm that sibling relationships go far beyond childhood rivalry and companionship—they embody empathy, sacrifice, and second chances. Clinicians note that such acts not only save lives but also strengthen family bonds.
As Gujarat witnesses a resurgence of medical heroism from within families, these tales of courage, cooperation, and compassion offer both inspiration and a reminder: the strongest allies in our most vulnerable moments might just be our brothers and sisters.
Let me know if you’d like to explore any individual case or the medical procedures in more depth!