Moira Kelly, the dedicated humanitarian known for her incredible acts of kindness, has saved her adopted daughter Krishna yet again by donating one of her kidneys during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kelly’s narrative of true maternal devotion shines not only through this extraordinary act but also through her long history of championing children's rights and well-being.
For those unfamiliar, Kelly first came to global attention when she brought the conjoined twins, Krishna and Trishna, from their remote village in Bangladesh to Australia for life-saving surgery. The twins underwent 32 hours of surgery at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, where renowned neurosurgeon Wirginia Maixner led the operation. The separation was fraught with risk, as the doctors had indicated they had only about a 50% chance of survival. They overcame these odds, thanks to Kelly's tireless advocacy and the generosity of Australian donors who contributed funds for their care.
After years of overcoming health challenges and enjoying their teenage years, the twins, now approaching 18, have made significant strides. Yet as life would have it, Krishna faced another severe health crisis. During the pandemic, she suffered from end-stage renal failure, causing deep distress for Kelly. "It was the worst time of my life," she disclosed during her heartfelt conversation on the podcast, Neil Mitchell as Ask Why. For Kelly, the urgency was palpable; she desperately knew her daughter needed a kidney transplant.
Kelly underwent testing as only about 10% of the population is eligible to donate kidneys, and her decision was filled with hope and anxiety. Lucky enough to be a match, she provided her kidney during this harrowing chapter of their lives. She recounted, "I feel so proud and happy looking at her every day. She's the funniest, most beautiful thing on two legs. They have enriched my life so much."
It’s certainly remarkable to reflect on the life Kelly has led. A fierce advocate for children worldwide, she has dedicated over 30 years to saving those most vulnerable. Whether rescuing drug-addicted newborns from the streets of New York or transporting babies from war-torn areas, Kelly's heart has been her most valuable resource.
Following the surgery, Kelly had to contend with considerable physical effects herself, spending six days recovering at the hospital. These burdens notwithstanding, Krishy bounced back quickly, demonstrating the unbreakable bond she shares with her adoptive mother. Kelly tenderly recalls the moment she held her daughter after surgery, flooding her with emotions and relief: "To see beautiful Krishy with this kidney and to think I’ve done something really good for her and her life is saved. I thank God every day."
Kelly’s remarkable tale of bravery and sacrifice has not only drawn admiration from her community but also prompted discussions about live organ donation. She emphasizes the importance of families having conversations about organ donation and encourages anyone who is able to become donors themselves. “There's really important messages here about live donation and donation after death. Families need to talk about it,” she shared, highlighting the knock-on effects donations can have for countless others.
The twins’ story has captivated the hearts of many Australians, not only because of the treacherous odds they faced as newborns but also due to their growth and resilience as they matured. While Krishna is thriving post-surgery, her sister Trishna remains fiercely protective—a bond reflecting the strength they share as sisters.
Moira Kelly never ceases to amaze, with her admirable acts likened by Neil Mitchell, host of the podcast, to those of a “saint.” His praise isn't unwarranted; Kelly's compassion radiates as brightly as her determination. Whether reflecting on her teenaged children or reminiscing about the many lives improved through her foundation, Children First, Kelly carries her mission with grace and dignity.
During her career, she has helped save hundreds more children through humanitarian efforts, leaving her indelible mark on many lives from Kolkata’s impoverished streets to war zones like Bosnia. Today, she aspires for her latest donation story to inspire others toward altruism. “You don’t have to wait, guys. You’ve got a spare. Use your spare. That’s what I say,” she boldly proclaims, encapsulating her philosophy of life emphasizing action over fear.
This latest chapter of Kelly's life is another vivid example of her unwavering commitment to her children and the lengths to which she will go to help others. Her unique and touching relationship with Krishna serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of love and sacrifice. For her, kidney donation wasn't merely about the gift of life; it was about making more cherished moments possible. Kelly is simply the embodiment of hope, acting as both mother and savior, leaving us with stories of inspiration and the reminder of the drastic impact one can have on another’s life.
