In a remarkable journey of resilience, 17-year-old Ryan Lim has emerged victorious after battling a rare autoimmune condition that nearly shattered his spirit. The teenager, hailing from Singapore, underwent a life-saving liver transplant on September 7, 2023, after a relentless decade-long struggle with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). This disturbing disorder sees the immune system mistakenly attacking the liver, leading to chronic inflammation and, in severe cases, liver failure.

Ryan's ordeal began at the tender age of five when his mother noticed troubling symptoms: jaundice and significant abdominal swelling. A trip to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital led to his AIH diagnosis, thrusting him into a world of steroids and immunosuppressants aimed at curbing his body's destructive tendencies. But life tested him further. In 2021, just as he was stepping into a new chapter of secondary school, Ryan faced pancreatitis and an inflamed spleen, complicating his condition even more.

Devastated by a new diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis, which attacks the bile ducts, Ryan's situation became increasingly dire. With his liver deteriorating, doctors led by Associate Professor Marion Aw from the National University Hospital searched for a solution, ultimately deciding a transplant was necessary.

However, hope turned to despair just days before the planned surgery when Ryan's father was found ineligible as a donor due to a vascular anomaly. Heartbroken, the family turned to their community for support, and through an altruistic donor, the surgery was back on.

On that September day, under the skilled hands of Dr. Vidyadhar Mali and his team, Ryan’s life took a positive turn. But the journey was far from over. Complications arose as infections plagued his body, prolonging his hospital stay to five grueling months. The emotional toll was heavy, dragging him into the depths of depression.

Yet, amidst the darkness, a friendship blossomed in an unexpected place. Dr. Lee Yang Yang, a consultant surgeon and secret piano enthusiast, connected with Ryan over music. Together, they shared moments of joy in the pediatric ward’s playroom, playing classical pieces on a toy keyboard. It sparked a healing bond that helped Ryan find light in his darkest days.

Now, after overcoming such monumental challenges, Ryan is back in school, gearing up to tackle his N-level and O-level exams by year’s end. With a newly revitalized outlook on life, Ryan aspires to become part of the healthcare field, hoping to support children facing similar struggles. "I want to pay it forward," he said, with determination in his voice. "I hope to help others, whether as a doctor or a physiotherapist." His story stands as a powerful testimony to resilience, community, and the indomitable spirit of youth.