The Silent Worker: Understanding Liver Health Through the Story of Little Ajay

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body — yet it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong. Known as the body’s silent worker, the liver quietly performs essential daily tasks to keep us alive. On World Liver Day, it’s time we shed light on this powerhouse organ — and how awareness and timely action helped save the life of a little boy named Ajay Krishna.

The liver carries out more than 500 functions, making it the second-largest organ in the body. Some of its key responsibilities include:

• Detoxifying the blood by removing harmful substances such as drugs and alcohol.
• Producing bile, which helps in digesting fats and absorbing vitamins.
• Storing essential nutrients, like iron and glucose, for energy.
• Regulating blood clotting and supporting immune function.
• Breaking down old red blood cells and producing proteins for blood plasma.

Despite its crucial role, liver disease can progress silently, often without showing early symptoms, which makes awareness, regular check-ups,and recognising signs all the more important.

Many liver conditions remain unnoticed until they reach an advanced stage. Here are some common signs and symptoms that should not be ignored:

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine or pale-coloured stool
• Swelling in the legs and ankles
• Itchy skin
• Nausea or vomiting

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Routine liver function tests (LFTs) can help detect abnormalities early and guide proper treatment.

Ajay Krishna, a brave one-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a rare and life-threatening condition that blocks the bile ducts and severely damages the liver. At such a tender age, Ajay had to undergo multiple painful procedures, yet his spirit remained unshaken.

His family, struggling with the emotional and financial burden, found a ray of hope in Child Help Foundation. With the support of our generous donors, Ajay underwent a successful liver transplant, a procedure that gave him a new lease of life. His parents remain deeply grateful for the help they received during their most challenging days.

Ajay’s recovery is not just a personal triumph, but a beacon of awareness for other families who might be silently facing similar battles.

Ajay is one of 25 childrensupported by Child Help Foundation who have undergone liver transplants. Through financial aid, emotional support, and awareness campaigns, the Foundation is changing lives — one child at a time.

Their mission underlines the importance of accessible healthcare, especially for children from underprivileged backgrounds, ensuring that timely intervention is never compromised by economic constraints.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Stay physically active to maintain a healthy weight.
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
• Avoid self-medicating or taking unnecessary over-the-counter drugs.
• Go for routine health check-ups and liver function tests, especially if there's a family history.

On this World Liver Day, let Ajay’s story inspire us to pay attention to our liver health and advocate for awareness in our communities.