US Woman Wakes From Coma Moments Before Organ Retrieval Surgery

Last Updated:August 07, 2025, 07:04 IST

Danella Gallegos was admitted to Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 2022 after a severe medical emergency left her in a coma.

A probe has been ordered for trying to retrieve the organ forcefully. (AI Generated)

A shocking case has come to light involving a US woman who reportedly regained consciousness just as an organ retrieval procedure was about to begin, despite doctors having earlier declared her beyond recovery.

According to a report by Ladbible, Danella Gallegos was admitted to Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 2022 after a severe medical emergency left her in a coma. Doctors told her family there was no chance of her regaining consciousness, prompting them to consent to organ donation.

However, as the 38-year-old was being prepared for surgery, family members began to observe subtle signs of life. In the days before the planned procedure, her relatives noticed tears in her eyes, signs that were dismissed by coordinators as mere involuntary reflexes. On the day her life support was withdrawn, Gallegos’ sisters claimed they saw her move. A doctor asked her to blink—and she did.

Despite these responses, officials from New Mexico Donor Services allegedly insisted that the organ retrieval go ahead. Presbyterian Hospital staff, however, refused to proceed with the operation under the circumstances.

Gallegos ultimately recovered fully and spoke to The New York Times about the terrifying experience. “I feel so fortunate, obviously," she said. “But it’s also crazy to think how close things came to ending differently."

Presbyterian Hospital has confirmed that an internal investigation was launched into the matter and indicated that donor officials may have pursued what they called “aggressive" retrieval tactics—an accusation that New Mexico Donor Services has strongly denied. The organisation maintains that it does not interfere with medical decision-making and remains committed to saving and preserving lives in the state.

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August 07, 2025, 07:04 IST

News world US Woman Wakes From Coma Moments Before Organ Retrieval Surgery

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