Conjoined twin dies 7 months after separation efforts

After undergoing separation surgery from her conjoined twin sister in 5/, Aruna Rodrigues showed positive signs and was moved to an inpatient room, but she succumbed to septic shock.

Brazil's Globo newspaper, citing a 24/12 statement from the State Hospital for Children and Adolescents (Hecad) in Goiania, reported that Aruna Rodrigues died on Christmas Day after months of recovery efforts. The 2-year-old's death came just seven months after her conjoined twin sister, Kiraz, passed away following major separation surgery.

That same evening, Doctor Zacharias Calil, who coordinated the surgery, announced the sad news on social media. "Today, God decided to free Aruna from her pain so she could be reunited with her sister. This is an immense sorrow for us, and especially for the family who fought with faith and love for both children," he wrote.

Aruna Rodrigues at Hecad Hospital in Goiania. Photo: Instagram.

Aruna and Kiraz, from Igaraçu do Tiete, Sao Paulo state, were born with a complex conjoined condition affecting their chests, abdomens, and pelvises. Doctor Calil had monitored the two babies since their early months, with surgical plans prepared for over one year. On 10/5, at 18 months old, the sisters underwent separation surgery that lasted over 19 hours. This was one of the hospital's most challenging medical interventions, mobilizing a team of over 50 medical staff and 16 leading specialists.

However, Kiraz died just days after the surgery due to brain death. Since then, Aruna continued to undergo numerous additional procedures, most recently in 10/, with hopes of returning home. The hospital's statement indicated that last month, Aruna's condition improved significantly, leading to her transfer to an inpatient room on 10/12. However, days later, she developed severe respiratory complications and had to return to the intensive care unit (ICU). There, she was diagnosed with a virus infection and passed away at 15h51 on 24/12, due to septic shock.

On the personal page dedicated to the two children, the family posted a brief message: "Rest in peace, our daughter." A Hecad hospital representative affirmed that full medical resources were provided to the family, and psychological support would continue after the tragic event. Aruna's body was returned to her hometown of Igaraçu do Tiete on 25/12 for the funeral.