To the world, he’s Ashton Kutcher — but to his family, he’s Chris, the older twin by five minutes. Growing up, Ashton defended his brother Michael,

born with cerebral palsy, from teasing and exclusion. Their biggest challenge came at 13, when Michael was diagnosed with viral cardiomyopathy.

His heart swelled to four times its normal size, and doctors said he had only weeks — then hours — to live without a transplant.

As Michael’s health declined, Ashton offered his own heart, even considering ending his life so it could be used.

Just in time, a matching donor was found. The surgery saved Michael, a gift he credits to a stranger’s choice to be an organ donor.

Michael later began speaking publicly about living with cerebral palsy and surviving a transplant. Through the #BeTheGift campaign,

he advocates for disability awareness and organ donation, noting that about 20 people in the U.S. die daily waiting for a transplant.

Now a father and stepfather, Michael uses his platform to inspire hope. His bond with Ashton

remains unbreakable — a testament to sibling love and the life-changing impact of one decision to give.