New Delhi: In a heartfelt and selfless display of humanity, two exceptional Army personnel Captain Cyrus and Fezal have become heroes not with weapons but with a life-saving stem cell donation.
Their story surpasses duty and borders, embarking on a remarkable journey, crossing the vast expanse of the country to donate stem cells and potentially save the lives of strangers battling blood cancer.
This selfless act of commitment and compassion shines a light on the unwavering spirit of service that defines the Indian Armed Forces. Today, they stand alongside many such selfless donors who, along with DKMS-BMST, provide a new lease of life to blood cancer and blood disorder patients in India.
This Army Day, DKMS-BMST takes a moment to salute the unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Captain Cyrus joined the Indian Army driven by a desire to serve. But even amongst the brave ranks of Indian soldiers, his act of courage stands out. Already registered as a potential stem cell donor with DKMS-BMST, he received a life-altering call in December 2023.
He was informed that his stem cells were a perfect match for a young patient who needed stem cell transplantation. To donate stem cells, he would have to travel thousands of miles away to Bangalore.
Despite the logistical challenges and personal sacrifices involved, Cyrus's decision was immediate. Without hesitation, he volunteered, stepping forward to offer a chance at life to someone he had never met.
"When I heard that my stem cells could give someone a second chance at life, there was no question in my mind," Cyrus shared during a telephonic interview. "As soldiers, we take an oath to protect our nation and its people. This felt like an extension of that duty, a way to fight for someone's life on a different battlefield."
Fezal, a young Indian Army man, also had a similar experience. He registered as a potential blood stem cell donor with DKMS-BMST in 2019. Two years later, in September 2021, he came up as a match for a blood cancer patient. Without a moment's hesitation, he set out on a strenuous journey, travelling from a remote location in North-East India for six days continuously, which even included a 60km walk, until he finally reached Bangalore to donate his blood stem cells.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Indian Army for their invaluable support to our cause. From defending our borders to rebuilding communities, our soldiers stand on the frontlines of hope and progress. (ANI)
