In 2016, 18-year-old Shreya Siddanagowder from Pune, India, lost both her hands in a devastating bus accident. Her life changed dramatically, but her determination remained unshaken. In 2017, she made history by becoming Asia’s first recipient of a bilateral above-elbow hand transplant. The complex and lengthy surgery was performed at Amrita Hospital in Kerala, using hands donated by a 21-year-old brain-dead male donor named Sachin.
The groundbreaking procedure, led by a team of over 20 surgeons, was only the second of its kind in the world. Following the transplant, Shreya faced an intense recovery process involving years of physiotherapy and strict immunosuppressant medication to prevent rejection. Gradually, she began regaining control and sensation in her new limbs. Through relentless rehabilitation, she learned to write, eat, dress, and perform daily activities independently once again—an extraordinary accomplishment given the level of her amputation.
One of the most fascinating outcomes of her recovery has been the transformation of her transplanted hands. Initially darker and more masculine in appearance, the skin tone of the new hands gradually lightened over time, eventually blending seamlessly with Shreya’s natural complexion. Doctors believe this rare change is the result of nerve regeneration, hormonal influences, and muscle adaptation, as her body fully integrated the donor limbs.
Nearly six years after the transplant, Shreya’s story stands as a symbol of medical innovation, resilience, and human spirit. Not only did she regain her independence, but she also matched her original handwriting—a remarkable testament to neuroplasticity and determination. Her journey continues to inspire millions and offers new hope to amputees worldwide, proving that science and perseverance can truly redefine the limits of recovery.
The groundbreaking procedure, led by a team of over 20 surgeons, was only the second of its kind in the world. Following the transplant, Shreya faced an intense recovery process involving years of physiotherapy and strict immunosuppressant medication to prevent rejection. Gradually, she began regaining control and sensation in her new limbs. Through relentless rehabilitation, she learned to write, eat, dress, and perform daily activities independently once again—an extraordinary accomplishment given the level of her amputation.
One of the most fascinating outcomes of her recovery has been the transformation of her transplanted hands. Initially darker and more masculine in appearance, the skin tone of the new hands gradually lightened over time, eventually blending seamlessly with Shreya’s natural complexion. Doctors believe this rare change is the result of nerve regeneration, hormonal influences, and muscle adaptation, as her body fully integrated the donor limbs.
Nearly six years after the transplant, Shreya’s story stands as a symbol of medical innovation, resilience, and human spirit. Not only did she regain her independence, but she also matched her original handwriting—a remarkable testament to neuroplasticity and determination. Her journey continues to inspire millions and offers new hope to amputees worldwide, proving that science and perseverance can truly redefine the limits of recovery.



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