A woman in her 60s, who fell into a coma due to a sudden brain hemorrhage, has passed away after saving the lives of four others.
The Korea Organ Donation Agency announced on the 23rd that Kim Jeong-ae (68) donated her lungs, liver, and both kidneys, saving four lives, before she passed away on the 18th of last month at Kangnam Severance Hospital in Seoul.
Kim collapsed suddenly while eating at a restaurant on the 6th of last month and was transported to the hospital. Thanks to the help of nearby citizens, she regained her heartbeat after cardiac arrest but ultimately could not recover consciousness and fell into a coma. Kim's family decided to donate her organs, remembering the warm assistance she received at the end.
The bereaved family expressed gratitude to the citizens who did not hesitate to perform CPR and help when Kim collapsed from a brain hemorrhage, as well as to the paramedics who arrived quickly on the scene and the medical staff who worked diligently on the treatment.
Born as the third of six siblings in Gangjin County, Jeonnam, Kim never lost her smile in the face of difficulties and often expressed love to her family. She enjoyed music, including playing the piano, singing, and performing, and served in the church choir with her husband for over 30 years. On weekends, she also participated in volunteer activities to help those in need at her church.
Kim's son, Han Guk-ran, said, "Mother, when I close my eyes and think of you, I can only remember you smiling brightly. It makes me so sad to think I will never see that again, but I hope you live happily in a brighter way in heaven. I love you."
Lee Sam-yeol, head of the Korea Organ Donation Agency, stated, "I thank the family of the donor for their noble sharing of life in deciding to donate and save other lives while parting with a beloved family member. I believe that such miraculous events will become a strength that warms and brightens our society."