Dad got healthy, gave up bad habits to donate liver to son with rare condition
A Singaporean father successfully donated a portion of his liver to his son, who was suffering from a rare genetic condition called Alagille syndrome. The father underwent significant lifestyle changes to qualify as a donor, highlighting the personal sacrifices involved in medical treatment.
Why it matters
This story underscores the life-saving potential of living organ donation and the impact of rare genetic diseases on families.
Medical Mysteries is a series that spotlights rare diseases or unusual conditions.
Noel Joshua Selvanathan with his son Isaiah, who was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Alagille syndrome.
Listen Summarise Isaiah was born with rare Alagille syndrome causing liver failure, needing a transplant at National University Hospital, Singapore's only centre for paediatric liver transplants. Noel Joshua, Isaiah’s father, overcame past health issues and lifestyle habits to become a living liver donor after Isaiah’s mother was found ineligible. The successful 12-hour transplant surgery restored Isaiah’s health, making him an active toddler, while the family remains grateful. AI generated
SINGAPORE – When service staff Noel Joshua Selvanathan, 36, first learnt that his son Isaiah was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition and needed a liver transplant to survive, he feared there was little he could do to help.
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