S'porean teen, 15, donates bone marrow to save sister, 13, who had cancer relapse

When his 13-year-old sister needed a bone marrow transplant due to a cancer relapse, a 15-year-old Singaporean teen stepped up to the plate.

Upon realising that he and his brother were the only two suitable donors in the family, Austin Lim told his stunned parents: "Then let's do it."

Austin's act of bravery was featured in a May 27 press release by the Children's Cancer Foundation.

Donated bone marrow to sister, 13

Austin's younger sister, Mira, was first diagnosed with leukaemia in January 2024.

The cancer went into remission after months of treatment.

However, the family was blindsided when Mira relapsed in early 2025.

The second diagnosis required a more aggressive form of treatment, with doctors recommending a bone marrow transplant to improve Mira's chances of recovery.

Mira's family readily stepped forward to be tested as potential donors, but only two matches were found — Austin and his younger brother, Dathan.

"It was like he understood that this was his to carry," Austin's father recalled his son's decision to undergo the procedure.

“I was nervous at first,” said Austin, recalling how he felt going into the transplant surgery,

“But I knew it was the right thing to do. It’ll all be over soon, just don’t give up.”

The procedure was carried out successfully on Apr. 28.

Austin, who loves basketball, was benched for weeks in order to rest, but is now back on his feet.

There have also been positive signs in his sister's recovery.

Mira has started eating again, with an easing in her pain and rising blood counts.

Father is a regular Hair for Hope participant

Austin's father, incidentally, has participated in the Hair for Hope event for over a decade.

The elder Lim came across the event during a family outing at VivoCity in 2013, and signed up to shave his head that day.

After learning how young children with cancer go through the painful chemotherapy journey just to survive, Lim said he was deeply moved and wanted to show his support in a meaningful way.

Lim later involved his two sons in Hair for Hope, but never imagined that one day, the children they stood in solidarity with would include his own daughter.

“Hair for Hope isn’t just an event for us. It’s a symbol of compassion. Of standing together,” said Lim.

Lim also offered encouragement to families caring for a family member with cancer.

“You are not alone. Take it one day at a time. Hope is always there - even on the hardest days.”

Hair for Hope 2025 main event

Address: 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585 (Vivocity)

When:

• Jul. 26, 11am to 7pm
• Jul. 27, 11am to 6pm

Register online for Hair for Hope 2025 here.

Top image from Children's Cancer Foundation