Aalin Sherin, Kerala’s youngest organ donor, laid to rest amid public mourning and tributes

Amid a poignant atmosphere, the mortal remains of Aalin Sherin Abraham, a 10-month-old child who became the youngest organ donor in Kerala, were laid to rest on Sunday.

The body, which had been kept at a private hospital morgue in Mallappalli, was kept for public viewing at the family residence in West Valumannil. By evening, the body was taken to the Nedungadapalli St. Thomas CSI Church cemetery for the final rites. The funeral was conducted with full State honours.

Cooperation Minister V.N. Vasavan said the family had shown a noble example of universal humanity. He said the Chief Minister would visit Aalin’s home the next day.

Earlier in the day, hundreds of people, including those from even distant locations, flocked to the house to catch a final glimpse of Aalin. Among those who paid their respects were Union Minister Suresh Gopi, Health Minister Veena George, Mr. Vasavan, Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian, Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine, and Pathanamthitta District Collector S. Prem Krishnan.

Meanwhile, a somber mood enveloped Kottayam as Aalin’s remains were brought to her home. Her parents, Arun Abraham and Sherin John, were inconsolable as people arrived to bid farewell to their daughter. Aalin sustained grievous injuries in a road accident at Pallam, near Kottayam, on February 5. While receiving treatment at a private hospital in Kochi, she sustained brain death. Her kidneys, heart, liver and corneas were subsequently donated, giving the gift of life to four children as she bid farewell.