Baby Hope: The UK’s Youngest Organ Donor

A baby who lived just 74 minutes has become the UK’s youngest organ donor.

The parents of Hope Lee, from Newmarket, knew for months that her life would be short. During pregnancy, doctors diagnosed her with anencephaly, a fatal brain and skull condition.

Despite the heartbreaking news, Emma and Andrew Lee made a powerful decision: Hope’s tiny kidneys and liver cells would be donated to give life to others.

A Family’s Courage in Heartbreak

Hope was born at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge last week, just ahead of her twin brother Josh. Her father Andrew recalled the painful yet precious moment:

“Just before she died, she bent her fingers around my finger and I broke down. Seventy four minutes isn’t long, but it has given us a chance for a bit of closure.”

Thanks to their decision, an adult woman is now doing well after receiving Hope’s kidneys.

Planning a Legacy of Life

The Lees, who are committed organ donors themselves, said that having time to plan ahead was what made the donation possible.

“It was a very sad time, but our whole family are signed-up for organ donation. We had time to plan everything we wanted to do and the hospital was able to put into action the transplant of the kidneys and some liver cells were taken as well.”

Rare but Life-Changing

Sally Johnson, NHS Blood and Transplant director, praised the family:

“It is exceptionally rare for very young babies to become organ donors. We are very grateful to Emma and Andrew for making such a courageous decision and to offer a chance of life to others at a time of personal loss.”

Hope’s story follows that of Teddy Houlston, who previously held the record as the UK’s youngest organ donor after passing away 100 minutes after his birth in 2014.

A Short Life That Meant So Much

In just 74 minutes, Hope touched lives forever. Her parents say her legacy is not one of loss, but of love, courage, and the gift of life.