Chen Xiaotian with his mother before he became ill
A Chinese mum who nursed her dying son for two years even though she was seriously ill herself has been cured after doctors used the boy’s kidney when he died to save her life.
The tragic story started when Chen Xiaotian from Jinzhou city in Hubei province in central China was diagnosed as having a malignant brain tumour aged just five.
He was treated and given an operation and for a few months it seemed that everything was well, but then the tumour returned with a vengeance and doctors told his parents there was little chance he would survive.
In addition his mother Zhou Lu, 34, had been diagnosed as suffering from kidney failure that left her permanently ill and in need of dialysis treatment. Despite her illness however she continued to care for her son, taking him for regular treatment at the hospital as he gradually worsened.
Eventually he became blind and shortly before he died had become bedridden and virtually paralysed, with his mother and grandmother having to do everything to care for him.
Grandma Lu Yuanxiu, 57, said: “The doctors approached me rather than his mother because of the sensitive nature of the issue. They told me that my grandson not survive but his kidneys could help his mother and also save to other lives as well.
“I discussed it with Zhou and she refused point-blank, she absolutely didn’t want to hear any talk of that happening.”
But the Gran had enlisted the help of her grandson who had told his mother: “I want to save your life.” In tears, his mother had agreed to the doctor’s proposal saying that what changed her mind was the thought that if her son was to die, part of him would live on in her.
Doctors confirmed that the tissue match was perfect and when he died on April 2, he was quickly moved to the operating theatre where his kidneys and liver were removed donated to his mother and two other people. The second kidney went to a 21-year-old girl and his liver to a 27-year-old man.
Hospital spokesman Yi Tai said all three transplants were a complete success and that the youngster’s death had allowed three others not only to live, but to have the hope of normal lives.
He said: “The medical team held a brief moment of prayer and silence for the poor child before the transplant, I think its fair to say there were very few dry eyes.”