The organs of two children who tragically drowned in the Arachthos River are being donated to help save other lives, following a deeply moving decision by their families.
The first transplants are already under way, with organs from the 14-year-old being transferred to hospitals in Athens and Thessaloniki. His parents made the decision while he was still hospitalised at the Rio General Hospital, where both children were taken after the incident. Sadly, his heart and lungs were ultimately deemed unsuitable for transplant.
Meanwhile, a specialised medical team is assessing which of the 12-year-old’s organs can be donated to other children in need.
The tragedy in Arta
The accident took place in the Arachthos River, in Arta, western Greece. According to reports, the 12-year-old was swept away by sudden currents caused by a release of water from the Pournari dam. A 15-year-old friend jumped in to help him, but both were caught in the current and pulled under.
Witnesses said the boys remained submerged for at least 20 minutes before being recovered, unconscious, by rescue teams. Neither of the two children knew how to swim. Two other boys who were with them managed to escape and raised the alarm.
Rescue efforts involved the fire brigade, the Special Disaster Response Unit (EMAK), and local residents with boats. Both boys were first transported to Arta hospital, then transferred intubated to the General University Hospital of Patras in Rio, where they were later pronounced dead.
Despite their unimaginable grief, the families made the extraordinary decision to donate their children’s organs — a final act of love that may save multiple lives.
Also read: Two boys brain-dead after river rescue in Arta
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