Most people would be terrified at the thought of donating an organ. The fear of surgery, the risks, and the thought of living with just one kidney is enough to make many hesitate. But for Siew Chen, there was never really a decision to make.
Image credits: NST Online
Years ago, her sister Dr. Siew Lee began suffering from constant headaches and severe swelling in her legs. At the time, she did not realise something was seriously wrong. Doctors later discovered that her kidneys were failing, and she would eventually need a transplant to survive.
Selfless M’sian saves sister’s life with kidney transplant
Before the transplant could happen, Dr. Siew Lee spent two years undergoing dialysis treatment. Even then, she refused to let her condition take over her life. She once even brought her dialysis machine with her during a trip to Thailand just so she could continue travelling.
When Siew Chen found out her sister needed a kidney donor, she immediately stepped forward.
“When my family found out, I knew I would be the first to donate,” she said. “Having two kidneys felt like a gift.”
To her, it was never about being brave or extraordinary. It was simply about saving someone she loved.
Image credits: Sin Chew Daily
Still, the road to the transplant was not easy. The process took more than a year of medical tests, check-ups, and hospital visits. Siew Chen remained committed through it all, even bringing her laptop to the hospital and returning to work just a day after surgery.
Hardships makes hearts grow fonder
During the operation, things took a frightening turn when Dr. Siew Lee’s blood pressure suddenly dropped to a dangerously low level. She had to remain hospitalised for an entire month as she recovered.
It was one of the toughest periods of their lives, but the sisters stood by each other every step of the way.
Now, 12 years later, Dr. Siew Lee is healthy and no longer needs dialysis. She continues working as a medical officer at Serdang Hospital. And Siew Chen? She’s living proof that donating a kidney does not mean life has to slow down. Today, she runs marathons, plays badminton regularly, and is even learning Muay Thai.
In an inspiring full-circle moment, the sisters are now among 35 climbers preparing to conquer Mount Kinabalu together as part of a mission organised by Wira Transplant Malaysia (WTM).
Follow Wah Piang for more.
