Woman Battles Epilepsy for 50 Years, Donates Organs to Give Six People New Life

A 50-year-old South Korean woman, Yoon Myung-ae, who lived with epilepsy since childhood, has given the gift of life to six people through organ donation after she was declared brain dead. The donations included her lungs, liver, both kidneys, corneas, and skin tissue.

Yoon was rushed to Guro University Hospital on July 27 after experiencing sudden respiratory distress while dining with her family. Despite efforts to save her, she never regained consciousness and was subsequently declared brain dead on August 1.

Her family decided to proceed with the organ donation, recalling Yoon's deep concern for those suffering from illnesses. Her eldest sister shared that knowing her sister is alive within others provides some comfort. Yoon, the youngest of five siblings, had faced daily challenges due to epilepsy, which began in her childhood, preventing her from fully experiencing life.

The Korea Organ Tissue Donation and Exchange (KODT) confirmed the donation on August 23, highlighting Yoon's selfless act in offering a new beginning to multiple recipients.