In a world where medical statistics often paint a grim picture, the story of Preeti Unhale is a defiant, joyful splash of color. On January 23, 2026, this 51-year-old woman from Delhi didn’t just mark another birthday; she celebrated a monumental milestone—25 years of life with a donor heart, officially making her India’s longest-living heart transplant survivor [[1], [9]].
Her journey is far more than a medical record. It’s a testament to human resilience, the power of modern medicine at institutions like AIIMS, and a profound, ongoing tribute to the selfless act of organ donation. In a country where the average heart transplant survival rate is still catching up to global standards—with a five-year survival rate of around 75% —her 25-year triumph is nothing short of extraordinary.
Table of Contents
- The Journey to a Second Chance
- Preeti Unhale: A Life Redefined
- The State of Heart Transplants in India
- A Mission Beyond Survival
- Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope
- Sources
The Journey to a Second Chance
Preeti Unhale’s path to that life-saving surgery in 2001 was fraught with challenges. For years, she battled a critical heart condition that left her future uncertain. Her journey wasn’t just a medical battle; it was an emotional and bureaucratic one, too. Reports indicate she faced significant hurdles, including being told she was not a candidate for a transplant on multiple occasions between 2004 and 2015 [[5], [6]].
Finally, her perseverance paid off at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. The successful transplant gave her a second lease on life—a gift she has honored with unwavering discipline and gratitude ever since.
Preeti Unhale: A Life Redefined
To call Preeti Unhale a survivor would be an understatement. She hasn’t just survived; she has thrived. Her life post-transplant is a vibrant tapestry of activity and purpose. She’s gone trekking to the sacred Kedarnath shrine and has even represented India on the international stage, participating in the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany [[2], [7]].
This level of physical activity is a powerful statement. It shatters the myth that life after a major transplant is one of mere existence. Instead, Preeti’s story shows that with strict adherence to medical protocols—including lifelong immunosuppressant medication and regular check-ups—it’s possible to live a full, adventurous, and meaningful life. Her personal and professional life as a Technical Officer at AIIMS itself is a daily reminder of her deep connection to the medical community that saved her .
The State of Heart Transplants in India
Preeti Unhale’s achievement stands in stark contrast to the broader landscape of heart transplantation in India. While the country has made significant strides, with experienced centers now reporting one-year survival rates of 80-90% [[18], [22]], the long-term data is still evolving. A report from AIIMS in 2016 noted that the maximum survival they had seen at the time was 17 years .
Globally, the longest-known heart transplant survivor lived for 31 years , but such cases are rare. Preeti’s 25-year milestone is therefore not just a personal victory but a significant benchmark for Indian medical science. It demonstrates that with the right care, infrastructure, and patient commitment, long-term survival is a tangible reality in India. For more on navigating the healthcare system for critical procedures, see our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:finding_the_best_hospitals_in_india].
A Mission Beyond Survival
Having been given the ultimate gift—the gift of life—Preeti Unhale has dedicated herself to a crucial mission: raising awareness about organ donation in India . She understands that her story is only possible because of a stranger’s generosity. In a country where organ donation rates remain low, her voice is a powerful catalyst for change.
She actively speaks about her experience, sharing the impact of organ donation and the importance of registering as a donor. Her advocacy work is a vital part of her legacy, ensuring that her own miracle can be replicated for countless others waiting for a second chance.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope
The story of Preeti Unhale is a masterclass in hope, discipline, and the enduring human spirit. From facing a life-threatening illness to becoming a national symbol of medical success and a passionate advocate for organ donation, her journey offers a powerful message. It reminds us that behind every medical statistic is a human life, capable of extraordinary things when given a chance. Her 25 years with a donor heart are not just a record; they are a living, breathing inspiration for patients, doctors, and families across the nation.
Sources
- Times of India: “Silver lining: Woman lives 25 years with a donor heart” [[1], [9]]
- World Transplant Games Federation: Team India Profile [[2], [7]]
- Various news reports on Preeti Unhale’s background and advocacy [[5], [6], [10]]
- Medical journals and reports on heart transplant outcomes in India [[4], [18], [19], [22]]
- Organ Donation India: Official Portal for Organ Donation Awareness [https://www.organdonationday.in/]