In a heartfelt gesture of brotherly love, 32-year-old Anas from Palanpur, Gujarat, donated a part of his liver to save his 27-year-old sister, Humera, who underwent surgery at a Mumbai hospital due to complications arising from Wilson’s disease.
Wilson’s disease is a rare genetic condition that leads to excessive copper build-up in the body. If left untreated, it can lead to progressive liver failure, neurological problems, and even death.
When the siblings’ older brother Owais, was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease in 2017, the family experienced its first crisis. Following his diagnosis, medical professionals recommended that all his siblings undergo screening. The youngest, Humera, also tested positive. She started her course of medication in 2018, but over time, her health deteriorated. She developed advanced liver cirrhosis by the beginning of 2025, with complications such as internal bleeding, jaundice and swelling in the abdomen. She needed a liver transplant.
After undergoing a thorough evaluation at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, Anas was declared a perfect match, and he readily consented to donating a part of his liver to his sister.
“She’s my sister, and I didn’t have to think twice about saving her,” the brother said. Before the surgery, he felt no fear, only a steadfast resolve to aid her recovery. “I was already ready,” Anas added, explaining that from the moment doctors confirmed he was a match, he never hesitated.
Dr Vikram Raut, Director & Chief Surgeon – Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, who performed the surgery along with his team on July 9, 2025, stated, “Despite beginning chelation treatment in 2018, Humera`s condition worsened, and the only option available was liver transplantation. We used the left lobe of her brother`s liver for the transplant.”
Dr Vishal Beri, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, added, “It’s heartening to see young patients like Humera get a second chance. Organ failure at such a young age is devastating, but with timely diagnosis and the right care, recovery is possible.”
As people celebrate Raksha Bandhan, both siblings are now on the road to recovery, with Anas preparing to return to his garment store and Humera looking forward to a healthy life with her husband.