Nedungadappally/Ranchi (Jharkhand): In a story that has moved the nation, 20-month-old Aalin Sherin Abraham has become Kerala’s youngest organ donor, transforming personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for multiple families.
Aalin was critically injured in a road accident on February 5. Despite intensive medical care, doctors later declared her brain dead. In the midst of unimaginable grief, her parents — Arun Abraham and Sherin — took the courageous decision to donate their only child’s organs, a gesture that has since drawn widespread admiration.
Her liver, both kidneys, corneas and heart valves were donated, helping four children receive a new lease of life.
State Honours for a Little Hero
The young donor was given a full state funeral by the Kerala government on Tuesday, recognising the family’s extraordinary humanitarian decision. The farewell ceremony at St. Thomas CSI Church in Nedungadappally was marked by an outpouring of grief and respect.
Aalin’s body was brought home in a small white coffin adorned with jasmine flowers, where a large crowd gathered to pay their last respects. Among those present were Union Minister Suresh Gopi and Kerala ministers Veena George and V.N. Vasavan.
While the atmosphere remained deeply sombre, there was also visible pride in the child’s life-saving legacy.
Grandfather’s Words Leave Mourners in Tears
During the final prayers, Aalin’s grandfather, Reji Samuel, delivered an emotional tribute that left the congregation teary-eyed.
“Our daughter travelled a 20-month journey — 10 months in the womb and 10 months on this earth. Yes, the pain is immense, but we are comforted that our granddaughter now lives as a quadruplet,” he said, adding that she had fulfilled the purpose for which God sent her.
A Moment That Touched Hearts
One of the most poignant moments came when Chandran, grandfather of Shreya — one of the organ recipients — arrived to pay respects.
“I have come to thank the little angel who gave my granddaughter a new life. As a grandfather, I understand what this family is going through,” he said, standing beside the coffin.
Hemant Soren Hails Parents’ Courage
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren also paid tribute to the family, calling their decision a rare and powerful act of humanity.
In a post on X, Soren said the loss of a child is the deepest pain any parent can endure, and described the organ donation as an act of “extraordinary courage, sacrifice and compassion.”
“This was not merely organ donation, but a living testament to faith in humanity,” he wrote, adding that though Aalin’s life was brief, she now lives on as hope in many homes.
A Legacy Beyond Loss
Aalin Sherin Abraham’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of organ donation. Though her time on earth was heartbreakingly short, the light she has ignited continues to inspire awareness, compassion and the enduring spirit of humanity.
