#Gravitas New Indian government data has reignited tough questions about gender equity in India's organ transplant system. Data shows that women continue to donate organs in far greater numbers than men. But when it comes to receiving life-saving transplants, the picture reverses completely. 

Gender Gap Persists in India's Organ Transplants

Mumbai: A Pune marathon runner’s final act of generosity has given four people a second chance at life after his family agreed to donate his organs following his death from injuries sustained in a road accident.&nbsp;Uday Birmal, 37, was on his routine morning training run on July 19 when he was allegedly hit by an autorickshaw in Pune. He suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, where he underwent intensive treatment. Doctors later declared him brain dead after all medical interventions failed to reverse the damage.&nbsp;In the midst of their grief, Birmal’s family consented to organ donation, allowing doctors to retrieve multiple organs for patients awaiting life-saving transplants.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/215-academics-pen-open-letter-slam-priyanka-gandhi-s-cow-urine-expert-remark-on-iit-madras-director-v-kamakoti-1785420621340">215 academics pen open letter, slam Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘cow urine expert’ remark on IIT Madras director V Kamakoti</a>&nbsp;According to the hospital, Birmal’s heart was transported to a hospital in Mumbai through a specially coordinated green corridor created by Pune Police, ensuring the organ reached the recipient within the narrow transplant window. His liver and one kidney were transplanted at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, while the second kidney was allocated to another hospital in Pune under Maharashtra’s organ-sharing network.&nbsp;Doctors involved in the transplants described the family’s decision as an extraordinary act of compassion, saying one deceased donor has the potential to save several lives through organ donation. They also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of transplant teams, emergency responders and traffic police, whose swift action helped ensure the organs reached recipients on time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/woman-poisons-husband-buries-body-in-12ft-deep-pit-in-gujarat-factory-tells-kin-he-went-to-work-in-australia-1785415792507">Woman poisons husband, buries body in 12ft deep pit in Gujarat factory, tells kin he went to work in Australia</a>&nbsp;Birmal was known in Pune’s running community for his passion for long-distance running and regular participation in marathon events. His death has prompted tributes from fellow runners and members of the city’s fitness community, who remembered him as a dedicated athlete and an inspiration to many.&nbsp;India continues to face a significant shortage of organ donors despite rising awareness about organ donation. According to the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), thousands of patients remain on transplant waiting lists every year, highlighting the critical role of deceased organ donation.

Uday Birmal’s heart was transported to a hospital in Mumbai through a specially coordinated green corridor, while his liver and one kidney were transplanted at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. The marathoner’s second kidney was allocated to another hospital in Pune.

Mumbai: A Pune marathon runner’s final act of generosity has given four people a second chance at life after his family agreed to donate his organs following his death from injuries sustained in a road accident. Uday Birmal, 37, was on his routine morning training run on July 19 when he was allegedly hit by an autorickshaw in Pune. He suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, where he underwent intensive treatment. Doctors later declared him brain dead after all medical interventions failed to reverse the damage. In the midst of their grief, Birmal’s family consented to organ donation, allowing doctors to retrieve multiple organs for patients awaiting life-saving transplants. Also Read: 215 academics pen open letter, slam Priyanka Gandhi’s ‘cow urine expert’ remark on IIT Madras director V Kamakoti According to the hospital, Birmal’s heart was transported to a hospital in Mumbai through a specially coordinated green corridor created by Pune Police, ensuring the organ reached the recipient within the narrow transplant window. His liver and one kidney were transplanted at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, while the second kidney was allocated to another hospital in Pune under Maharashtra’s organ-sharing network. Doctors involved in the transplants described the family’s decision as an extraordinary act of compassion, saying one deceased donor has the potential to save several lives through organ donation. They also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of transplant teams, emergency responders and traffic police, whose swift action helped ensure the organs reached recipients on time. Also Read: Woman poisons husband, buries body in 12ft deep pit in Gujarat factory, tells kin he went to work in Australia Birmal was known in Pune’s running community for his passion for long-distance running and regular participation in marathon events. His death has prompted tributes from fellow runners and members of the city’s fitness community, who remembered him as a dedicated athlete and an inspiration to many. India continues to face a significant shortage of organ donors despite rising awareness about organ donation. According to the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), thousands of patients remain on transplant waiting lists every year, highlighting the critical role of deceased organ donation.

Uday Birmal’s heart was transported to a hospital in Mumbai through a specially coordinated green corridor, while his liver and one kidney were transplanted at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. The marathoner’s second kidney was allocated to another hospital in Pune.

Pune marathon runner’s organs save four lives after fatal road crash

An organ donor came back to life thrashing and crying just as doctors prepared to harvest his body parts, an NPR report has revealed. The incident happened in 2021 and the publication spoke to witnesses who recalled the incident.

Thirty-six-year-old Thomas 'TJ' Hoover II's sister and former Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) employees told NPR that he was declared brain dead. The surgeons prepared to remove his organs at Baptist Health Richmond Hospital in Kentucky in October 2021 and were about to check his heart health when he showed signs of being alive.

“He was moving around — kind of thrashing. Like, moving, thrashing around on the bed,” Natasha Miller, a former KODA employee told NPR in an interview. “And then when we went over there, you could see he had tears coming down. He was crying visibly.”

Hoover was taken to the hospital on the same day following a drug overdose and was declared brain dead. His sister told NPR that she saw Hoover seemingly open his eyes and look around while he was being taken from the Intensive Care Unit to the Operating Room. However, the doctors dismissed it as a common reflex.

But the surgeons backed off, refusing to go ahead with the organ removal procedure after Hoover started moving. “The procuring surgeon, he was like, ‘I’m out of it. I don’t want to have anything to do with it,’ ” Miller says. “It was very chaotic. Everyone was just very upset.”

The case coordinator at the hospital for KODA then called her supervisor for advice, who reportedly told her to "find another doctor".&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stockholm-syndrome-at-play-fugitive-dad-like-robin-hood-for-misguided-community-766791">Stockholm Syndrome at play? Fugitive dad like 'Robin Hood' for 'misguided' community</a>

"She was saying that he was telling her that she needed to ‘find another doctor to do it’ – that, ‘We were going to do this case. She needs to find someone else,’" Miller said.

"She’s crying — the coordinator — because she’s getting yelled at."

<h2>Several employees quit, took therapy to recover from the incident</h2>

The organ retrieval was called off and several employees quit afterwards.&nbsp;

Nyckoletta Martin, another organ preservationist who quit KODA but was not assigned to the case, said she reviewed case notes and was shocked to learn that the patient was showing signs of life as the doctors went in to check his heart health.

Martin alleged that the doctors sedated the patient when he woke up and plans to harvest the organs were still in place at the time.&nbsp;

“That’s everybody’s worst nightmare, right? Being alive during surgery and knowing that someone is going to cut you open and take your body parts out?” Martin says. “That’s horrifying.”

The details of the incident came to light in September when Nyckoletta Martin wrote to the House Energy and Commerce Committee. A hearing investigating organ procurement organisations was later held.&nbsp;

“Several of us that were employees needed to go to therapy. It took its toll on a lot of people, especially me,” Martin told NPR.

The allegations are being reviewed, the Kentucky state attorney general’s office told NPR.

<h2>KODA dismisses allegations</h2>

Meanwhile, KODA refuted the allegations. Julie Bergin, president and chief operating officer for Network for Hope, which was formed when KODA merged with the LifeCenter Organ Donor Network, said in a statement, "No one at KODA has ever been pressured to collect organs from any living patient."

"KODA does not recover organs from living patients. KODA has never pressured its team members to do so.”

An organ donor came back to life thrashing and crying just as doctors prepared to harvest his body parts, an NPR report has revealed. The incident happened in 2021 and the publication spoke to witnesses who recalled the incident.

An organ donor came back to life thrashing and crying just as doctors prepared to harvest his body parts, an NPR report has revealed. The incident happened in 2021 and the publication spoke to witnesses who recalled the incident. Thirty-six-year-old Thomas 'TJ' Hoover II's sister and former Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) employees told NPR that he was declared brain dead. The surgeons prepared to remove his organs at Baptist Health Richmond Hospital in Kentucky in October 2021 and were about to check his heart health when he showed signs of being alive. “He was moving around — kind of thrashing. Like, moving, thrashing around on the bed,” Natasha Miller, a former KODA employee told NPR in an interview. “And then when we went over there, you could see he had tears coming down. He was crying visibly.” Hoover was taken to the hospital on the same day following a drug overdose and was declared brain dead. His sister told NPR that she saw Hoover seemingly open his eyes and look around while he was being taken from the Intensive Care Unit to the Operating Room. However, the doctors dismissed it as a common reflex. But the surgeons backed off, refusing to go ahead with the organ removal procedure after Hoover started moving. “The procuring surgeon, he was like, ‘I’m out of it. I don’t want to have anything to do with it,’ ” Miller says. “It was very chaotic. Everyone was just very upset.” The case coordinator at the hospital for KODA then called her supervisor for advice, who reportedly told her to "find another doctor". Also Read: Stockholm Syndrome at play? Fugitive dad like 'Robin Hood' for 'misguided' community "She was saying that he was telling her that she needed to ‘find another doctor to do it’ – that, ‘We were going to do this case. She needs to find someone else,’" Miller said. "She’s crying — the coordinator — because she’s getting yelled at." Several employees quit, took therapy to recover from the incident The organ retrieval was called off and several employees quit afterwards. Nyckoletta Martin, another organ preservationist who quit KODA but was not assigned to the case, said she reviewed case notes and was shocked to learn that the patient was showing signs of life as the doctors went in to check his heart health. Martin alleged that the doctors sedated the patient when he woke up and plans to harvest the organs were still in place at the time. “That’s everybody’s worst nightmare, right? Being alive during surgery and knowing that someone is going to cut you open and take your body parts out?” Martin says. “That’s horrifying.” The details of the incident came to light in September when Nyckoletta Martin wrote to the House Energy and Commerce Committee. A hearing investigating organ procurement organisations was later held. “Several of us that were employees needed to go to therapy. It took its toll on a lot of people, especially me,” Martin told NPR. The allegations are being reviewed, the Kentucky state attorney general’s office told NPR. KODA dismisses allegations Meanwhile, KODA refuted the allegations. Julie Bergin, president and chief operating officer for Network for Hope, which was formed when KODA merged with the LifeCenter Organ Donor Network, said in a statement, "No one at KODA has ever been pressured to collect organs from any living patient." "KODA does not recover organs from living patients. KODA has never pressured its team members to do so.”

Organ donor started moving and crying moments before procedure, report says

World Organ Donation Day 2024: Every year, Organ Donation Day is observed on 13 August to raise awareness about the significance of donating organs. The day is vital to encourage people to consider becoming organ donors.&nbsp;

Every year, the day is celebrated around the globe honouring the selfless service of organ donors and their families. According to UNOS, about 1,03,993 people need a lifesaving organ but the number of available donors is drastically less, leading to a critical gap between demand and supply.&nbsp;

As per Organ.org, every donor can save seven lives and enhance seventy-five more. Therefore, Organ Donation Day plays a crucial role in highlighting the challenges faced by the people in need of organs to save their lives.&nbsp;

<h2>Organ Donation Day 2024: Theme&nbsp;</h2>

Organ Donation Day is observed on 13 August every year, and this year, the theme for the day is “Be the Reason for Someone’s Smile Today!”

The theme portrays the importance of organ donation in saving the lives of so many people. Through this theme, the day seeks to inspire people by making them aware of the urgent need for organ donors.&nbsp;

<h2>World Organ Donation 2024: Significance&nbsp;</h2>

World Organ Donation Day is not just limited to raising awareness but is also about promoting a culture of saving lives. It encourages people by educating them about how organ donation saves lives. The day also helps in addressing the myths and misconceptions about organ donation that make people hesitant about donating organs.&nbsp;

<h2>World Organ Donation Day 2024: Steps to register as an Organ Donor in India</h2>

In India, Organ donation is regulated by the&nbsp;Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act of 1994, which allows everyone to donate organs. Registering for Organ Donation in India is a simple process. The process can be completed online by filling out the pledge form by Organ India, where you will receive a unique government registration number and a donor card from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation.

<h2>Guide to register as an Organ Donor:</h2>

1. Online Pledge form: The form is available on the Organ India website: <a href="https://www.organindia.org/pledge-to-be-an-organ-donor/">https://www.organindia.org/pledge-to-be-an-organ-donor/.</a> After filling out the form, you will receive a unique government registration number with a donor card.

2. National Registration: All online pledges made are registered with the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), ensuring your form is registered officially.&nbsp;

3. Family Consent: Family consent is an important step while registering as an organ donor.&nbsp;

By following the above steps and informing your family about the decision to become an organ donor, you can help save seven lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

World Organ Donation Day 2024: Every year, Organ Donation Day is observed on 13 August to raise awareness about the significance of donating organs. The day is vital to encourage people to consider becoming organ donors.

World Organ Donation Day 2024: Every year, Organ Donation Day is observed on 13 August to raise awareness about the significance of donating organs. The day is vital to encourage people to consider becoming organ donors. Every year, the day is celebrated around the globe honouring the selfless service of organ donors and their families. According to UNOS, about 1,03,993 people need a lifesaving organ but the number of available donors is drastically less, leading to a critical gap between demand and supply. As per Organ.org, every donor can save seven lives and enhance seventy-five more. Therefore, Organ Donation Day plays a crucial role in highlighting the challenges faced by the people in need of organs to save their lives. Organ Donation Day 2024: Theme Organ Donation Day is observed on 13 August every year, and this year, the theme for the day is “Be the Reason for Someone’s Smile Today!” The theme portrays the importance of organ donation in saving the lives of so many people. Through this theme, the day seeks to inspire people by making them aware of the urgent need for organ donors. World Organ Donation 2024: Significance World Organ Donation Day is not just limited to raising awareness but is also about promoting a culture of saving lives. It encourages people by educating them about how organ donation saves lives. The day also helps in addressing the myths and misconceptions about organ donation that make people hesitant about donating organs. World Organ Donation Day 2024: Steps to register as an Organ Donor in India In India, Organ donation is regulated by the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act of 1994, which allows everyone to donate organs. Registering for Organ Donation in India is a simple process. The process can be completed online by filling out the pledge form by Organ India, where you will receive a unique government registration number and a donor card from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation. Guide to register as an Organ Donor: 1. Online Pledge form: The form is available on the Organ India website: https://www.organindia.org/pledge-to-be-an-organ-donor/. After filling out the form, you will receive a unique government registration number with a donor card. 2. National Registration: All online pledges made are registered with the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), ensuring your form is registered officially. 3. Family Consent: Family consent is an important step while registering as an organ donor. By following the above steps and informing your family about the decision to become an organ donor, you can help save seven lives. (With inputs from agencies)

World Organ Day 2024: Date, Theme, and Significance, All you need to know

Since the first human heart transplants in 1967, patients have reported strange and inexplicable personality changes. Some claim that after surgery, they feel more like their donor and less like themselves.&nbsp;

For example, a transplant recipient in the 1990s told scientists in a paper published in 2000 that after receiving the heart of a young male musician, she had an unexpected love for music.

According to a recent University of Colorado (CU) study, such profound alterations in personality don't seem to be caused only by heart transplants.

Should these symptoms be closely associated with organ transplants, maybe this indicates that our entire body, not just one or two organs, contains our "sense of self."

The study published in Transplantology collected the data through a questionnaire.

No matter which organ they got, over 90% of transplant patients, 23 heart recipients, and 24 other recipients, experienced personality changes following surgery, according to an online survey.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/over-30-of-covaxin-takers-experienced-nervous-system-disorders-menstrual-abnormalities-suggests-study-722361">Over 30% of Covaxin takers experienced nervous system disorders, menstrual abnormalities, suggests study</a>

The majority of patients in the research reported going through four or more personality changes, with the majority of these changes being related to memories, temperament, emotions, eating habits, identity, or religious or spiritual views.

Medical researcher Brian Carter and his colleagues at CU come to the conclusion that "heart transplant recipients may not be unique in their experience of personality changes following transplantation," despite the fact that the study is too small to be statistically significant.

Rather, they contend that more study is necessary since "such changes may occur following the transplantation of any organ."

The CU study is among the first to measure the alterations in personality following a range of organ transplants.

Previous research has only tended to focus on heart transplants, as these are regarded to be the most severe and long-lasting.

Since the first human heart transplants in 1967, patients have reported strange and inexplicable personality changes. Some claim that after surgery, they feel more like their donor and less like themselves.

Since the first human heart transplants in 1967, patients have reported strange and inexplicable personality changes. Some claim that after surgery, they feel more like their donor and less like themselves. For example, a transplant recipient in the 1990s told scientists in a paper published in 2000 that after receiving the heart of a young male musician, she had an unexpected love for music. According to a recent University of Colorado (CU) study, such profound alterations in personality don't seem to be caused only by heart transplants. Should these symptoms be closely associated with organ transplants, maybe this indicates that our entire body, not just one or two organs, contains our "sense of self." The study published in Transplantology collected the data through a questionnaire. No matter which organ they got, over 90% of transplant patients, 23 heart recipients, and 24 other recipients, experienced personality changes following surgery, according to an online survey. Also read: Over 30% of Covaxin takers experienced nervous system disorders, menstrual abnormalities, suggests study The majority of patients in the research reported going through four or more personality changes, with the majority of these changes being related to memories, temperament, emotions, eating habits, identity, or religious or spiritual views. Medical researcher Brian Carter and his colleagues at CU come to the conclusion that "heart transplant recipients may not be unique in their experience of personality changes following transplantation," despite the fact that the study is too small to be statistically significant. Rather, they contend that more study is necessary since "such changes may occur following the transplantation of any organ." The CU study is among the first to measure the alterations in personality following a range of organ transplants. Previous research has only tended to focus on heart transplants, as these are regarded to be the most severe and long-lasting.

Organ transplants can lead to profound personality changes, suggests study

The family of a CRPF soldier from Odisha's Khurda district made a life-saving decision on Monday. Following his brain death, they chose to donate his heart and liver, to two individuals in need of organ transplants.

The soldier, Krushna Chandra Mahabhoi, served as a havildar in CRPF in Jammu and Kashmir. He was battling a chronic kidney disease and undergoing dialysis for two years.

Mahabhoi was declared brain-dead at a private hospital on March 20. &nbsp;Dr Alisha Choudhury of the private hospital said, “After his brain death, we sought permission from the family members for organ donation and they agreed. Subsequently, arrangements were made for that.”

The soldier's heart and liver were transported to Kolkata and Mumbai, respectively, offering a new lease of life to two individuals in critical need. Initially, the family was hesitant about doctors taking out Krushna Chandra Mahabhoi's organs, but his wife helped change the family's mind.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-odisha-man-brain-dead-gives-fresh-leash-of-life-to-four-people-after-organ-donation-608657">India: Odisha man, brain dead, gives fresh lease of life to four people after organ donation</a>

Satyabrata Mahabhoi, the deceased soldier's son, said, "My father devoted his life to the nation. Now, if two people can survive with my father's organs, that will also be a service." Mahabhoi's heart will beat anew in Kolkata, while his liver will help survive an individual in Mumbai.

According to an article published in the Lancet journal, India sees 17,000–18,000 solid organ transplants performed every year—the most in the world after the US and China.

(With inputs from agencies)

The family of a CRPF soldier from Odisha's Khurda district made a life-saving decision on Monday. Following his brain death, they chose to donate his heart and liver, to two individuals in need of organ transplants.

The family of a CRPF soldier from Odisha's Khurda district made a life-saving decision on Monday. Following his brain death, they chose to donate his heart and liver, to two individuals in need of organ transplants. The soldier, Krushna Chandra Mahabhoi, served as a havildar in CRPF in Jammu and Kashmir. He was battling a chronic kidney disease and undergoing dialysis for two years. Mahabhoi was declared brain-dead at a private hospital on March 20. Dr Alisha Choudhury of the private hospital said, “After his brain death, we sought permission from the family members for organ donation and they agreed. Subsequently, arrangements were made for that.” The soldier's heart and liver were transported to Kolkata and Mumbai, respectively, offering a new lease of life to two individuals in critical need. Initially, the family was hesitant about doctors taking out Krushna Chandra Mahabhoi's organs, but his wife helped change the family's mind. Also read | India: Odisha man, brain dead, gives fresh lease of life to four people after organ donation Satyabrata Mahabhoi, the deceased soldier's son, said, "My father devoted his life to the nation. Now, if two people can survive with my father's organs, that will also be a service." Mahabhoi's heart will beat anew in Kolkata, while his liver will help survive an individual in Mumbai. According to an article published in the Lancet journal, India sees 17,000–18,000 solid organ transplants performed every year—the most in the world after the US and China. (With inputs from agencies)

CRPF soldier saves two lives with heart and liver donation after brain death

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4).

Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to save him, Subhajit slipped into a coma and eventually died on Saturday (March 4).&nbsp;In the face of this devastating loss, Subhajit's family made the&nbsp;decision to donate all of his organs, including kidneys, lungs, liver, eyes, heart, and pancreas.

“I am proud of my son. He died but saved the lives of many. I work in the healthcare sector. So, I know how scarce human organs are. People die waiting for donors. So, we took the decision to donate his organs,” Subhajit’s father Biswajit Sahu told PTI.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-crisis-in-bengaluru-housing-society-implements-fine-for-water-misuse-696963">Also read |&nbsp;Water crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse&nbsp;</a>

<h2>State honours after organ donation</h2>

The decision to bestow full state honours upon Subhajit aligns with the recent policy announced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, which ensures that organ donors receive dignified last rites. This policy aims to raise awareness about organ donation and honour individuals who contribute to this life-saving cause.&nbsp;

Police Commissioner Panda told PTI, “We hope more people will come forward to donate organs through this initiative."

Full State honours entail that the State Government manages all aspects of the ceremony, which includes wrapping the body in the national flag and conducting a 21-gun salute. Additionally, the government provides financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh (over 6k USD) from the Chief Minister’s fund to the relatives of organ donors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-resume-delhi-chalo-march-police-boost-surveillance-at-borders-697130">Also read |&nbsp;India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders</a>

To streamline the organ donation process, the government established a 'State Organ &amp; Tissue Transplant Organisation' in 2019. Furthermore, in 2020, the government introduced the Suraj Award to recognise and honour organ donors.

Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi in Kolkata to inaugurate first-of-its-kind river metro project in India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-kolkata-to-inaugurate-first-of-its-kind-river-metro-project-in-india-697129/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4). Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school.

An eight-year-old Indian boy named Subhajit Sahu, whose organs were donated following his death, was cremated with full state honours on Monday (March 4). Subhajit, a second-grade student, experienced a brain seizure while taking a test at his school. Despite immediate medical attention and efforts to save him, Subhajit slipped into a coma and eventually died on Saturday (March 4). In the face of this devastating loss, Subhajit's family made the decision to donate all of his organs, including kidneys, lungs, liver, eyes, heart, and pancreas. “I am proud of my son. He died but saved the lives of many. I work in the healthcare sector. So, I know how scarce human organs are. People die waiting for donors. So, we took the decision to donate his organs,” Subhajit’s father Biswajit Sahu told PTI. Also read | Water crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse State honours after organ donation The decision to bestow full state honours upon Subhajit aligns with the recent policy announced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, which ensures that organ donors receive dignified last rites. This policy aims to raise awareness about organ donation and honour individuals who contribute to this life-saving cause. Police Commissioner Panda told PTI, “We hope more people will come forward to donate organs through this initiative." Full State honours entail that the State Government manages all aspects of the ceremony, which includes wrapping the body in the national flag and conducting a 21-gun salute. Additionally, the government provides financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh (over 6k USD) from the Chief Minister’s fund to the relatives of organ donors. Also read | India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders To streamline the organ donation process, the government established a 'State Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation' in 2019. Furthermore, in 2020, the government introduced the Suraj Award to recognise and honour organ donors. Also watch | PM Modi in Kolkata to inaugurate first-of-its-kind river metro project in India (With inputs from agencies)

8-year-old Indian boy, whose organs were donated after death, cremated with state honours

Data spanning from 1995 to 2021 in India revealed a striking gender imbalance in organ transplants, with four men getting organ transplants for every woman. A total of 36,640 transplants took place in this period, out of which 29,000 were for men and 6,945 for women.&nbsp;

This substantial difference is attributed to a complex interplay of economic responsibilities, societal pressures, and deeply ingrained preferences.&nbsp;

Dr Anil Kumar, director of the government-run&nbsp;National Organ &amp; Tissue&nbsp;Transplant&nbsp;Organisation (NOTTO) highlighted this significant aspect of the organ donation landscape.

While more men contribute as cadaver donors, a staggering 93 per cent of total organ donations in the country come from living donors, he told the Times of India newspaper.

This hints at a trend: a majority of living organ donors are women.&nbsp;

<h2>Socio-economic factors&nbsp;a&nbsp;driving force for women donors?</h2>

A study published in the Experimental and Clinical Transplantation Journal in 2021 delved into the intricacies of living organ transplantation in India.

The findings showed that 80 per cent&nbsp;of living organ donors are women, predominantly wives or mothers.

The socio-economic pressure on women to assume caregiving roles within the family emerges as a primary factor, compelling them to step forward as donors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-mishap-how-will-a-3-ft-pipe-rescue-trapped-labourers-658688">Also read |&nbsp;Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: How will a 3-ft pipe rescue trapped labourers?</a>

<h2>Men's reluctance in surgery</h2>

In many cases, men, often the primary breadwinners, hesitate to undergo surgery, contributing to the gender gap in organ recipients.

The study highlights that when the recipient is a male breadwinner, family members, especially wives or parents, feel a heightened responsibility to donate organs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-to-probe-suspicious-withdrawals-from-organ-donation-system-595861">Also read |&nbsp;Hong Kong to probe suspicious withdrawals from organ donation system</a>

<h2>Emotional dynamics</h2>

The emotional dynamics surrounding organ donation are intricate. Women recipients, in particular, may experience guilt when their family members, especially wives or mothers, become donors.

This reluctance leads to a scenario where women recipients may find themselves on waiting lists.&nbsp;

Notably, Karnataka has topped the charts in organ donation in the past decade. The number of donations have risen from 102 in 2013 to 765 in the first 10 months of 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

Data spanning from 1995 to 2021 in India revealed a striking gender imbalance in organ transplants, with four men getting organ transplants for every woman. A total of 36,640 transplants took place in this period, out of which 29,000 were for men and 6,945 for women.

Data spanning from 1995 to 2021 in India revealed a striking gender imbalance in organ transplants, with four men getting organ transplants for every woman. A total of 36,640 transplants took place in this period, out of which 29,000 were for men and 6,945 for women. This substantial difference is attributed to a complex interplay of economic responsibilities, societal pressures, and deeply ingrained preferences. Dr Anil Kumar, director of the government-run National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) highlighted this significant aspect of the organ donation landscape. While more men contribute as cadaver donors, a staggering 93 per cent of total organ donations in the country come from living donors, he told the Times of India newspaper. This hints at a trend: a majority of living organ donors are women. Socio-economic factors a driving force for women donors? A study published in the Experimental and Clinical Transplantation Journal in 2021 delved into the intricacies of living organ transplantation in India. The findings showed that 80 per cent of living organ donors are women, predominantly wives or mothers. The socio-economic pressure on women to assume caregiving roles within the family emerges as a primary factor, compelling them to step forward as donors. Also read | Uttarakhand tunnel mishap: How will a 3-ft pipe rescue trapped labourers? Men's reluctance in surgery In many cases, men, often the primary breadwinners, hesitate to undergo surgery, contributing to the gender gap in organ recipients. The study highlights that when the recipient is a male breadwinner, family members, especially wives or parents, feel a heightened responsibility to donate organs. Also read | Hong Kong to probe suspicious withdrawals from organ donation system Emotional dynamics The emotional dynamics surrounding organ donation are intricate. Women recipients, in particular, may experience guilt when their family members, especially wives or mothers, become donors. This reluctance leads to a scenario where women recipients may find themselves on waiting lists. Notably, Karnataka has topped the charts in organ donation in the past decade. The number of donations have risen from 102 in 2013 to 765 in the first 10 months of 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Gender disparity in Indian organ transplants: 4 in 5 living donors women, 4 in 5 recipients men

Organ donation can come from a brain-dead person as a gift of life. This is the type of donation that happens in most of the Western world. In India and many Asian countries, this form of donation is less than 0.5 per million people. This has resulted in a family member or friend donating a part of their liver to save a loved one's life. This is referred to as a live donation. This donation process results in a highly effective treatment for patients experiencing organ failure, a medical procedure known as organ transplantation.

Unfortunately, the demand for organs for transplantation far outweighs the available supply worldwide. This is due in part to a lack of awareness and accurate information among the public, leading to various misconceptions that discourage people from donating organs.

To&nbsp;explore and debunk some myths and help readers better understand organ donation, WION spoke to Dr Dinesh Balakrishnan, Clinical Professor, GI Surgery, Centre for Organ Transplantation, Amrita Hospital, Kochi,&nbsp;on World Organ Donation Day. Here's what he shared!

Myth: Brain-dead people can come back to life with life support.

Fact: Brain death is a condition resulting in irreversible loss of brain function. Although life support machines can maintain breathing and heart rate, brain death means the brain cells have died and the vital functions they control are permanently lost. Organs like the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, and kidneys can be sustained for a short time with artificial support. The warmth and appearance of life on the life support machine can give families false hope. It's important for families to understand brain death and consider donating organs to those in need.

Myth: Organ donation causes disfigurement.

Fact: Organ donation doesn't disfigure the body visibly. Surgical incisions are made, but they are not easily noticeable. After the organs are removed, the donor's body is closed up by surgeons, and it's hard to tell that organs have been donated just by looking at the body.

Myth: An organ transplant is a complete cure; no more treatment is needed.

Fact: Receiving an organ transplant requires lifelong management. Transplant recipients need to take immunosuppressant medications to prevent organ rejection. These medications can have side effects, and recipients need regular check-ups and tests to ensure that the transplanted organs function properly.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-the-cultural-impact-on-aesthetic-preferences--exploring-cosmetic-procedures-in-india-624800">The cultural impact on aesthetic preferences: Exploring cosmetic procedures in India</a>

Myth: Only young and healthy people can donate organs.

Fact: Age isn't the sole criterion for organ donation. The decision to use organs is based on their health, not age. Medical professionals determine the suitability of organs for transplantation at the time of donation.

Myth: I'm not in the best of health; nobody wants my organs.

Fact: Most medical conditions don't automatically disqualify someone from organ donation. While some organs might not be suitable, others could still be viable. The healthcare team makes the decision about whether organs and tissues can be transplanted based on medical assessments.

Myth: Only deceased individuals can donate organs.

Fact: Living donors play a vital role in organ transplantation, especially for kidneys. Living organ donation has become more popular because people realise the significant impact they can make by helping others in need.

By dispelling these myths, the medical expert hopes to increase awareness and understanding of organ donation. It's a selfless act that can save lives and offer a second chance to those facing organ failure.

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Organ donation can come from a brain-dead person as a gift of life. This is the type of donation that happens in most of the Western world. In India and many Asian countries, this form of donation is less than 0.

Organ donation can come from a brain-dead person as a gift of life. This is the type of donation that happens in most of the Western world. In India and many Asian countries, this form of donation is less than 0.5 per million people. This has resulted in a family member or friend donating a part of their liver to save a loved one's life. This is referred to as a live donation. This donation process results in a highly effective treatment for patients experiencing organ failure, a medical procedure known as organ transplantation. Unfortunately, the demand for organs for transplantation far outweighs the available supply worldwide. This is due in part to a lack of awareness and accurate information among the public, leading to various misconceptions that discourage people from donating organs. To explore and debunk some myths and help readers better understand organ donation, WION spoke to Dr Dinesh Balakrishnan, Clinical Professor, GI Surgery, Centre for Organ Transplantation, Amrita Hospital, Kochi, on World Organ Donation Day. Here's what he shared! Myth: Brain-dead people can come back to life with life support. Fact: Brain death is a condition resulting in irreversible loss of brain function. Although life support machines can maintain breathing and heart rate, brain death means the brain cells have died and the vital functions they control are permanently lost. Organs like the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, and kidneys can be sustained for a short time with artificial support. The warmth and appearance of life on the life support machine can give families false hope. It's important for families to understand brain death and consider donating organs to those in need. Myth: Organ donation causes disfigurement. Fact: Organ donation doesn't disfigure the body visibly. Surgical incisions are made, but they are not easily noticeable. After the organs are removed, the donor's body is closed up by surgeons, and it's hard to tell that organs have been donated just by looking at the body. Myth: An organ transplant is a complete cure; no more treatment is needed. Fact: Receiving an organ transplant requires lifelong management. Transplant recipients need to take immunosuppressant medications to prevent organ rejection. These medications can have side effects, and recipients need regular check-ups and tests to ensure that the transplanted organs function properly. Also read: The cultural impact on aesthetic preferences: Exploring cosmetic procedures in India Myth: Only young and healthy people can donate organs. Fact: Age isn't the sole criterion for organ donation. The decision to use organs is based on their health, not age. Medical professionals determine the suitability of organs for transplantation at the time of donation. Myth: I'm not in the best of health; nobody wants my organs. Fact: Most medical conditions don't automatically disqualify someone from organ donation. While some organs might not be suitable, others could still be viable. The healthcare team makes the decision about whether organs and tissues can be transplanted based on medical assessments. Myth: Only deceased individuals can donate organs. Fact: Living donors play a vital role in organ transplantation, especially for kidneys. Living organ donation has become more popular because people realise the significant impact they can make by helping others in need. By dispelling these myths, the medical expert hopes to increase awareness and understanding of organ donation. It's a selfless act that can save lives and offer a second chance to those facing organ failure. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Organ Donation Day 2023: Doctor reveals myths and facts about organ donation

By registering as an organ donor or communicating your wish to donate your organs after death, you can potentially save up to seven lives by providing vital organs like the heart, liver, both kidneys, lungs, pancreas, and small intestine to those in need of transplants. Organ donation is a generous and impactful way to leave a lasting legacy and help others even after passing away.

When we talk about pledging your organs for donation or about organ donation after death, we are talking about Deceased Organ Donation. This is an organ donation from a person who has been declared brain stem dead by a team of authorised doctors at a hospital. A person is said to be brain stem dead when there is an irreversible loss of consciousness, absence of brain stem reflexes and irreversible loss of the capacity to breathe.

A lot of people think that whenever and however they die, their organs can be donated. That is not true. In India, organ donation after death is only possible in the case of brain stem death. Donation after cardiac death is common in the West, but in India, it is rare for donations to take place after cardiac death.

Although it is possible for organs such as the liver and the kidney to be easily donated from a living donor to a recipient, we should work towards an environment where everyone donates their organs after their deaths (if they can), so no living person should have to donate an organ to another. 
&nbsp; 
A brain stem death or brain death results from a severe irreversible injury to the brain or haemorrhage which causes all the brain activity to stop. All areas of the brain are damaged and no longer function, due to which a person cannot sustain his/her own life, but vital body functions may be maintained by an artificial support system. This maintains circulation to vital organs long enough to facilitate organ donation. Patients classified as brain stem dead can have their organs surgically removed for organ donation.

A brain-dead person has absolutely no chance of recovering. Brain death is irreversible. Once brain stem death or brain death has been declared, the person is considered dead, but their organs are still alive through artificial means. This means that if a person dies at home or anywhere else, and their heart stops beating, they cannot donate their vital organs, because the organs of a person who has died a cardiac death will die within minutes of the heart-stopping. Therefore, the only time you can donate your vital organs is if you are in a hospital and have been declared brain dead.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-world-organ-donation-day-2023-doctor-reveals-myths-and-facts-about-organ-donation-624894">World Organ Donation Day 2023: Doctor reveals myths and facts about organ donation</a>

In case of cardiac death, it is possible to donate your corneas and tissues such as bones, skin, veins, blood stem cells, blood and platelets, tendons, ligaments, heart valves, cartilage and even your body.

While the incidence of brain death is obviously less common than cardiac death, it is important to remember that organ donations will take place only if everyone is aware of when and how they can donate organs. 
&nbsp; 
A deceased organ donor is kept on a ventilator after she/he has been declared brain-dead. They will remain on the ventilator until necessary approvals are taken and the organs can be retrieved. A brain stem dead person’s organ may stay alive for a period of time that may range from a few days to a few weeks. The longer it takes to retrieve the organs, the more they will deteriorate inside the body. Therefore, the entire process of&nbsp;counselling the family, taking permissions, etc., should be quickly taken care of. For this to happen, families must make a&nbsp;decision soon after the brain death has been declared.

Once the organs have been retrieved, they cannot be kept outside the body for very long and need to be transplanted fast. Within the stipulated time period, they should be implanted in the recipient for proper functioning these are -

For heart – 4-6 hours, lungs – 6-8 hours, small intestine – 6-8 hours,&nbsp;liver and pancreas – 8-12 hours, kidneys – 24-30 hours.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The family of the donor will not receive anything, and the recipient is not charged for the organs. The recipients however will have to pay the costs of transplantation to the hospital where they are being operated. After the donor family gives consent for organ donation, all costs relating to the donor are borne by the hospital.

Unfortunately, mostly due to unawareness and prejudices, there is a huge shortage of organs that are needed for transplants. It has been seen in umpteen situations that relatives are hesitant and unwilling to donate the organs of their loved ones who have been declared brain dead.

Normally the transplant coordinator will approach the relatives with information about organ donation and explain that even in their time of loss, they can help another person to live. It is tough for the relatives at this point to come to a decision especially if they are not familiar with the concept of organ donation. This is the main reason why it is important for all of us to know about organ donation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-exploring-the-role-of-genetics-in-kidney-diseases-unraveling-the-complexities-of-inherited-disorders-624839">Exploring the role of genetics in kidney diseases: Unraveling the complexities of inherited disorders</a>

It is estimated that the total number of brain stem deaths due to accidents in India is nearly 150 thousand annually. Other causes of brain stem death would potentially add many more numbers. However, our organ donation rate is 0.86 per million population which is the lowest in the world, compared to countries like the USA, where the rate is 31.96 per million and in Spain, 46.9 per million.

The total number of deceased donors in India in 2017 was only 905. There is a need for approximately 5 lakh organs annually. Barely 2-3 per cent of the demand is met, and many people die of organ failure every year across India.

(Inputs by&nbsp;Dr Rahul Kendre, Lung transplant Physician and Interventional Pulmonologist, DPU Private Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune)

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By registering as an organ donor or communicating your wish to donate your organs after death, you can potentially save up to seven lives by providing vital organs like the heart, liver, both kidneys, lungs, pancreas, and small intestine to those in need of transplants.

By registering as an organ donor or communicating your wish to donate your organs after death, you can potentially save up to seven lives by providing vital organs like the heart, liver, both kidneys, lungs, pancreas, and small intestine to those in need of transplants. Organ donation is a generous and impactful way to leave a lasting legacy and help others even after passing away. When we talk about pledging your organs for donation or about organ donation after death, we are talking about Deceased Organ Donation. This is an organ donation from a person who has been declared brain stem dead by a team of authorised doctors at a hospital. A person is said to be brain stem dead when there is an irreversible loss of consciousness, absence of brain stem reflexes and irreversible loss of the capacity to breathe. A lot of people think that whenever and however they die, their organs can be donated. That is not true. In India, organ donation after death is only possible in the case of brain stem death. Donation after cardiac death is common in the West, but in India, it is rare for donations to take place after cardiac death. Although it is possible for organs such as the liver and the kidney to be easily donated from a living donor to a recipient, we should work towards an environment where everyone donates their organs after their deaths (if they can), so no living person should have to donate an organ to another. A brain stem death or brain death results from a severe irreversible injury to the brain or haemorrhage which causes all the brain activity to stop. All areas of the brain are damaged and no longer function, due to which a person cannot sustain his/her own life, but vital body functions may be maintained by an artificial support system. This maintains circulation to vital organs long enough to facilitate organ donation. Patients classified as brain stem dead can have their organs surgically removed for organ donation. A brain-dead person has absolutely no chance of recovering. Brain death is irreversible. Once brain stem death or brain death has been declared, the person is considered dead, but their organs are still alive through artificial means. This means that if a person dies at home or anywhere else, and their heart stops beating, they cannot donate their vital organs, because the organs of a person who has died a cardiac death will die within minutes of the heart-stopping. Therefore, the only time you can donate your vital organs is if you are in a hospital and have been declared brain dead. Also read: World Organ Donation Day 2023: Doctor reveals myths and facts about organ donation In case of cardiac death, it is possible to donate your corneas and tissues such as bones, skin, veins, blood stem cells, blood and platelets, tendons, ligaments, heart valves, cartilage and even your body. While the incidence of brain death is obviously less common than cardiac death, it is important to remember that organ donations will take place only if everyone is aware of when and how they can donate organs. A deceased organ donor is kept on a ventilator after she/he has been declared brain-dead. They will remain on the ventilator until necessary approvals are taken and the organs can be retrieved. A brain stem dead person’s organ may stay alive for a period of time that may range from a few days to a few weeks. The longer it takes to retrieve the organs, the more they will deteriorate inside the body. Therefore, the entire process of counselling the family, taking permissions, etc., should be quickly taken care of. For this to happen, families must make a decision soon after the brain death has been declared. Once the organs have been retrieved, they cannot be kept outside the body for very long and need to be transplanted fast. Within the stipulated time period, they should be implanted in the recipient for proper functioning these are - For heart – 4-6 hours, lungs – 6-8 hours, small intestine – 6-8 hours, liver and pancreas – 8-12 hours, kidneys – 24-30 hours. The family of the donor will not receive anything, and the recipient is not charged for the organs. The recipients however will have to pay the costs of transplantation to the hospital where they are being operated. After the donor family gives consent for organ donation, all costs relating to the donor are borne by the hospital. Unfortunately, mostly due to unawareness and prejudices, there is a huge shortage of organs that are needed for transplants. It has been seen in umpteen situations that relatives are hesitant and unwilling to donate the organs of their loved ones who have been declared brain dead. Normally the transplant coordinator will approach the relatives with information about organ donation and explain that even in their time of loss, they can help another person to live. It is tough for the relatives at this point to come to a decision especially if they are not familiar with the concept of organ donation. This is the main reason why it is important for all of us to know about organ donation. Also read: Exploring the role of genetics in kidney diseases: Unraveling the complexities of inherited disorders It is estimated that the total number of brain stem deaths due to accidents in India is nearly 150 thousand annually. Other causes of brain stem death would potentially add many more numbers. However, our organ donation rate is 0.86 per million population which is the lowest in the world, compared to countries like the USA, where the rate is 31.96 per million and in Spain, 46.9 per million. The total number of deceased donors in India in 2017 was only 905. There is a need for approximately 5 lakh organs annually. Barely 2-3 per cent of the demand is met, and many people die of organ failure every year across India. (Inputs by Dr Rahul Kendre, Lung transplant Physician and Interventional Pulmonologist, DPU Private Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Organ Donation Day 2023: Checking 1 box can save 7 lives after our demise; here's how

In a remarkable medical achievement in India's Odisha state, a generous act of organ donation gave life to four patients in various hospitals across the country. The development occurred after a 43-year-old man named Prasannajit Mohanty, from Bhubaneswar, about 1800km southeast of New Delhi&nbsp;was declared brain dead. Mohanty's family decided to let his&nbsp;legacy live on by donating five of his vital organs.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

While the number of organ donations have increased in the world's most populous nation in recent years, they are still deemed insufficient.&nbsp;India has an organ donation rate of about 0.52 per million of population much less than the required rate of 1 organ per million of population.

Prasannajit's organ donation, thus conveys a powerful message to society through their act of organ donation.

<h2>What happened to Prasannajit?</h2>

On June 22, 2023, Prasannajit suffered a severe head injury in an accident, according to reports in local media. He was promptly admitted to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar by his family. After conducting several tests, doctors determined on the following day that Prasannajit had experienced brain death.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-year-old-brain-dead-girl-saves-5-lives-becomes-youngest-organ-donor-at-aiims-delhi-480322">6-year-old brain dead girl saves 5 lives, becomes youngest organ donor at AIIMS Delhi</a>

Subsequently, an apnea test was performed twice, confirming the irreversible loss of brain function.

Upon receiving a request from the medical professionals for organ donation, Prasannajit's wife, Mrudumanjari Mohapatra, immediately discussed the matter with the entire family. Eventually, they unanimously agreed to donate five of the patient's organs after his passing, with the intention of aiding those in need through transplantation.

"I pray before God that those patients who have got a new lease of life with the transplantation of my husband’s organs live a long and healthy life," Prasannajit’s wife Mrudumanjari was quoted as saying by OdishaTV.

With the consent of the family members, the process of organ donation for Prasannajit commenced at the hospital, facilitated by the State Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (SOTTO), Regional Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (ROTTO), and National Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (NOTTO).

A team of 20 doctors undertook a meticulous surgery,&nbsp; to retrieve two kidneys, two lungs, and a liver from Prasannajit's body for transplantation into other recipients.

Also watch |&nbsp;The new age of organ transplantation | WION Wideangle

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The two kidneys were successfully transplanted into two patients at hospitals in Odisha itself. Prasannajit's two lungs offered a fresh lease of life to a 16-year-old patient in Kolkata.

Through the creation of a green corridor, Prasannajit's liver was swiftly transported to a private hospital in New Delhi.

It was successfully transplanted into a patient who had been fighting for survival.

According to the medical professionals cited in the local media, the feat is remarkable because&nbsp;multiple organs had been retrieved and transplanted with success.

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In a remarkable medical achievement in India's Odisha state, a generous act of organ donation gave life to four patients in various hospitals across the country.

In a remarkable medical achievement in India's Odisha state, a generous act of organ donation gave life to four patients in various hospitals across the country. The development occurred after a 43-year-old man named Prasannajit Mohanty, from Bhubaneswar, about 1800km southeast of New Delhi was declared brain dead. Mohanty's family decided to let his legacy live on by donating five of his vital organs. What does it mean? While the number of organ donations have increased in the world's most populous nation in recent years, they are still deemed insufficient. India has an organ donation rate of about 0.52 per million of population much less than the required rate of 1 organ per million of population. Prasannajit's organ donation, thus conveys a powerful message to society through their act of organ donation. What happened to Prasannajit? On June 22, 2023, Prasannajit suffered a severe head injury in an accident, according to reports in local media. He was promptly admitted to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar by his family. After conducting several tests, doctors determined on the following day that Prasannajit had experienced brain death. Also read | 6-year-old brain dead girl saves 5 lives, becomes youngest organ donor at AIIMS Delhi Subsequently, an apnea test was performed twice, confirming the irreversible loss of brain function. Upon receiving a request from the medical professionals for organ donation, Prasannajit's wife, Mrudumanjari Mohapatra, immediately discussed the matter with the entire family. Eventually, they unanimously agreed to donate five of the patient's organs after his passing, with the intention of aiding those in need through transplantation. "I pray before God that those patients who have got a new lease of life with the transplantation of my husband’s organs live a long and healthy life," Prasannajit’s wife Mrudumanjari was quoted as saying by OdishaTV. With the consent of the family members, the process of organ donation for Prasannajit commenced at the hospital, facilitated by the State Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (SOTTO), Regional Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (ROTTO), and National Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (NOTTO). A team of 20 doctors undertook a meticulous surgery, to retrieve two kidneys, two lungs, and a liver from Prasannajit's body for transplantation into other recipients. Also watch | The new age of organ transplantation | WION Wideangle × The two kidneys were successfully transplanted into two patients at hospitals in Odisha itself. Prasannajit's two lungs offered a fresh lease of life to a 16-year-old patient in Kolkata. Through the creation of a green corridor, Prasannajit's liver was swiftly transported to a private hospital in New Delhi. It was successfully transplanted into a patient who had been fighting for survival. According to the medical professionals cited in the local media, the feat is remarkable because multiple organs had been retrieved and transplanted with success. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Odisha man, brain dead, gives fresh lease of life to four people after organ donation

Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee said on Tuesday (May 23) that the police would investigate suspicious applications from people seeking to withdraw from the city's organ donation system, condemning an alleged attempt to damage the programme.

Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee said on Tuesday (May 23) that the police would investigate suspicious applications from people seeking to withdraw from the city's organ donation system, condemning an alleged attempt to damage the programme. Speaking to reporters, Chief Executive Lee pointed to those who withdrew their applications without ever registering, calling their actions suspicious, the news agency Associated Press reported. “I severely condemn those who attempt to cause damage to this noble system which saves lives through organ donations,” Lee said, adding it was a shameful act. Since December last year, Hong Kong's organ donation system received nearly 5,800 withdrawal applications, when the government raised the possibility of establishing an organ transplant mutual assistance programme with China. Over half of the withdrawal applications were found to be invalid, either as duplicate applications or coming from people who had never opted in. Hong Kong has a separate system for matching donated organs to patients and does not have any standing mechanism to share cadaveric organs with institutions in mainland China. The report said that cross-border organ transplants have been permitted on a case-by-case basis. Organ donations met with resistance in Hong Kong, China Organ donations have been met with resistance in Hong Kong as well as China. On Hong Kong’s Reddit-like forum LIHKG, some users were sceptical about the proposed system and others posted a link for making withdrawals from the register. Earlier, the Hong Kong government floated the proposal after a baby girl underwent the city's first transplant using a heart donated from mainland China in December last year. The government said the organ assistance programme under consideration could be activated immediately after medical personnel could not match a donated organ with a suitable patient locally. On Monday, the government said that it could not rule out that a small number of people made withdrawal attempts in a bid to undermine the reputation of the system and to increase the administrative burden. Without naming anyone, the government said these people distorted the virtue of organ donation by promoting the idea that donors should scrutinise the identity of the recipients online. The government also pointed out that some of these people also urged others to withdraw from the system. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong to probe suspicious withdrawals from organ donation system

Every year, hundreds of organ transplants around the world fail due to unsuccessful operations. At times, this is due to a faulty assessment of the donor organ by medical staff. To remedy this, British researchers have come up with a new Artificial Intelligence powered tool that can help boost the quality of donor organs. The new tool, which has been described by the Guardian as "pioneering," uses AI to score potential organs. The AI-based tool called OrQA or Organ Quality Assessment does this by comparing them to images of tens of thousands of other organs previously used in transplants.&nbsp;

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This too can potentially help surgeons in the UK perform an additional 300 transplants every year.

Currently, medical professionals rely on their own assessment of the feasibility of a donor organ. This assessment, at times, goes wrong. In some scenarios, wrongly picked organs mean unsuccessful operations, in others it means that useful organs get disregarded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-dramatic-decline-in-mental-well-being-of-young-people-especially-during-covid-pandemic-567298">Study finds 'dramatic decline in mental well-being’ of young people, especially during COVID pandemic</a>

Prof Hassan Ugail, director of the centre for visual computing at the University of Bradford, who along with his team is refining the AI's ability to analyse images explained, "Currently when an organ becomes available, it is assessed by a surgical team by sight."

This, as per him, "means, occasionally, organs will be deemed not suitable for transplant."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-_1-minutes-of-daily-minutes-could-prevent-1-in-10-early-deaths-study-567045">11 minutes of daily walk could prevent 1 in 10 early deaths: Study</a>

He further elaborated that OrQA will be used to assess images of donor organs in a more effective manner than "what the human eye can see."

OrQA will do this by looking for damage and pre-existing conditions in the organs. It will also monitor how well blood has been flushed out of the donor organ. To use the tool, surgeons will just have to upload a picture of the donated organ and the tool will guide them on how best to use it.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Every year, hundreds of organ transplants around the world fail due to unsuccessful operations. At times, this is due to a faulty assessment of the donor organ by medical staff.

Every year, hundreds of organ transplants around the world fail due to unsuccessful operations. At times, this is due to a faulty assessment of the donor organ by medical staff. To remedy this, British researchers have come up with a new Artificial Intelligence powered tool that can help boost the quality of donor organs. The new tool, which has been described by the Guardian as "pioneering," uses AI to score potential organs. The AI-based tool called OrQA or Organ Quality Assessment does this by comparing them to images of tens of thousands of other organs previously used in transplants. Watch | Will the moon get its own time zone? This too can potentially help surgeons in the UK perform an additional 300 transplants every year. Currently, medical professionals rely on their own assessment of the feasibility of a donor organ. This assessment, at times, goes wrong. In some scenarios, wrongly picked organs mean unsuccessful operations, in others it means that useful organs get disregarded. Also read | Study finds 'dramatic decline in mental well-being’ of young people, especially during COVID pandemic Prof Hassan Ugail, director of the centre for visual computing at the University of Bradford, who along with his team is refining the AI's ability to analyse images explained, "Currently when an organ becomes available, it is assessed by a surgical team by sight." This, as per him, "means, occasionally, organs will be deemed not suitable for transplant." Also read | 11 minutes of daily walk could prevent 1 in 10 early deaths: Study He further elaborated that OrQA will be used to assess images of donor organs in a more effective manner than "what the human eye can see." OrQA will do this by looking for damage and pre-existing conditions in the organs. It will also monitor how well blood has been flushed out of the donor organ. To use the tool, surgeons will just have to upload a picture of the donated organ and the tool will guide them on how best to use it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AI to pick suitable organs for transplants; help surgeons perform 300 more operations a year

In order to increase the supply of organs for transplant, scientists have successfully altered the blood type of the donor's kidneys.

Highlighting the implications of the breakthrough, researchers said it will especially be beneficial for minority groups as they find it harder to find a match.

In comparison to white patients, black and other ethnic minority groups often have to wait a year longer as they are more likely to have the rarer B-type blood group.

Both organ donor and receiver need to have the same blood group for the transplant to take place successfully.

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While people from those communities make up 33 per cent of the kidney transplant waiting list, just over 9 per cent of total organ donations came from black and other minority ethnic donors during 2020-2021.

To allow more transplants to take place, researchers have changed the blood type to the universal O as this can be used for people with any blood type.

For flushing blood infused with an enzyme through the deceased donor’s kidney, researchers at the University of Cambridge used a normothermic perfusion machine that connects with a human kidney to ensure that oxygenated blood passes through the organ to better preserve it for future use.

Effectively changing its blood type to type O, the enzyme removes the blood-type markers that line the blood vessels of the organ.

''Our confidence was really boosted after we applied the enzyme to a piece of human kidney tissue and saw very quickly that the antigens were removed,'' said Serena MacMillan, a PhD student at the University of Cambridge.

The team will look at how the approach might be used in a clinical setting after testing the reintroduction of other blood types.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In order to increase the supply of organs for transplant, scientists have successfully altered the blood type of the donor's kidneys. Highlighting the implications of the breakthrough, researchers said it will especially be beneficial for minority groups as they find it harder to find a match.

In order to increase the supply of organs for transplant, scientists have successfully altered the blood type of the donor's kidneys. Highlighting the implications of the breakthrough, researchers said it will especially be beneficial for minority groups as they find it harder to find a match. In comparison to white patients, black and other ethnic minority groups often have to wait a year longer as they are more likely to have the rarer B-type blood group. Both organ donor and receiver need to have the same blood group for the transplant to take place successfully. × While people from those communities make up 33 per cent of the kidney transplant waiting list, just over 9 per cent of total organ donations came from black and other minority ethnic donors during 2020-2021. To allow more transplants to take place, researchers have changed the blood type to the universal O as this can be used for people with any blood type. For flushing blood infused with an enzyme through the deceased donor’s kidney, researchers at the University of Cambridge used a normothermic perfusion machine that connects with a human kidney to ensure that oxygenated blood passes through the organ to better preserve it for future use. Effectively changing its blood type to type O, the enzyme removes the blood-type markers that line the blood vessels of the organ. ''Our confidence was really boosted after we applied the enzyme to a piece of human kidney tissue and saw very quickly that the antigens were removed,'' said Serena MacMillan, a PhD student at the University of Cambridge. The team will look at how the approach might be used in a clinical setting after testing the reintroduction of other blood types. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Scientists alter blood type of donor kidneys to increase supply of organs for transplant

Five people, including two Indian Army soldiers, have been given a new lease of life after the organs of a young brain-dead woman were used for transplant. Reportedly, the woman was brought to Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune after suffering an unfortunate accident.

However, the doctors, after observation stated that there were no signs of life present. The family of the woman consulted the transplant team at the hospital and decided to donate the organs to patients in dire need.&nbsp;

Soon enough, the zonal transplant coordination centre (ZTCC) and Army Organ Retrieval and Transplant Authority (AORTA) were alerted about the organs. Kidneys were transplanted into the two soldiers while the liver was transplanted to a patient at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune.

Indian Army's Public Relations Office (PRO), Pune informed, “All the necessary clearances were made, later, the transplant team at Command Hospital Southern Command was immediately activated and the alerts were also sent to the Zonal transplant coordination centre (ZTCC) and Army Organ Retrieval and Transplant Authority (AORTA).”

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-year-old-brain-dead-girl-saves-5-lives-becomes-youngest-organ-donor-at-aiims-delhi-480322">6-year-old brain dead girl saves 5 lives, becomes youngest organ donor at AIIMS Delhi</a>

It further added, “During the night of July and the early morning hours of July 15, viable organs such as kidneys were transplanted into two serving soldiers of the Indian Army while other organs such as eyes were preserved at the eye bank of CH(SC)-Armed forces medical college complex and the liver was given to a patient at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune,”

Defence PRO also took to Twitter to thank for the benevolent gesture. "A benevolent gesture of organ donation after death and well coordinated, relentless efforts of medical specialists through entire night at Command Hospital #SouthernCommand gave life &amp; eyesight to five severely ill patients." the defence PRO tweeted.

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A benevolent gesture of organ donation after death and well coordinated, relentless efforts of medical specialists through entire night at Command Hospital <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthernCommand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthernCommand</a> gave life &amp; eyesight to five severely ill patients.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeCare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeCare</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrganDonation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrganDonation</a> <a href="https://t.co/IuU4OQi1lF">pic.twitter.com/IuU4OQi1lF</a>
— PRO Defence Pune (@PRODefPune) <a href="https://twitter.com/PRODefPune/status/1547888955315535872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Five people, including two Indian Army soldiers, have been given a new lease of life after the organs of a young brain-dead woman were used for transplant. Reportedly, the woman was brought to Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune after suffering an unfortunate accident.

Five people, including two Indian Army soldiers, have been given a new lease of life after the organs of a young brain-dead woman were used for transplant. Reportedly, the woman was brought to Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune after suffering an unfortunate accident. However, the doctors, after observation stated that there were no signs of life present. The family of the woman consulted the transplant team at the hospital and decided to donate the organs to patients in dire need. Soon enough, the zonal transplant coordination centre (ZTCC) and Army Organ Retrieval and Transplant Authority (AORTA) were alerted about the organs. Kidneys were transplanted into the two soldiers while the liver was transplanted to a patient at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune. Indian Army's Public Relations Office (PRO), Pune informed, “All the necessary clearances were made, later, the transplant team at Command Hospital Southern Command was immediately activated and the alerts were also sent to the Zonal transplant coordination centre (ZTCC) and Army Organ Retrieval and Transplant Authority (AORTA).” Read More: 6-year-old brain dead girl saves 5 lives, becomes youngest organ donor at AIIMS Delhi It further added, “During the night of July and the early morning hours of July 15, viable organs such as kidneys were transplanted into two serving soldiers of the Indian Army while other organs such as eyes were preserved at the eye bank of CH(SC)-Armed forces medical college complex and the liver was given to a patient at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune,” Defence PRO also took to Twitter to thank for the benevolent gesture. "A benevolent gesture of organ donation after death and well coordinated, relentless efforts of medical specialists through entire night at Command Hospital #SouthernCommand gave life & eyesight to five severely ill patients." the defence PRO tweeted. A benevolent gesture of organ donation after death and well coordinated, relentless efforts of medical specialists through entire night at Command Hospital #SouthernCommand gave life & eyesight to five severely ill patients.#WeCare#OrganDonation pic.twitter.com/IuU4OQi1lF — PRO Defence Pune (@PRODefPune) July 15, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Brain dead woman gives new lease of life to five, including two Indian Army soldiers

Do you live in Switzerland? If you do, you are automatically an organ donor. According to new laws, every adult patient is presumed to be an organ donor, unless they specifically refuse to donate in their will. Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: Switzerland declares all adults as organ donors

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts. 
 
August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation. 
 
During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said. 
 
"The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS. 
 
There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period. 
 
A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues). 
 
"Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS. 
 
"There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added. 
 
However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild. 
 
"After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said. 
 
Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said. 
 
In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US. 
 
The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one. 
 
As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology. 
 
"Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts.

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts. August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation. During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said. "The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS. There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period. A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues). "Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS. "There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added. However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild. "After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said. Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said. In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US. The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one. As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology. "Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.

Organ donation dropped significantly due to COVID-19: Experts

A recent episode of 'The Good Fight' has not gone down well with pop star Selena Gomez or her fans. The episode referenced Selena's health battle which many felt was in bad taste. 
 
In season five, episode four, a comedy streaming executive Del (Wayne Brady) asks Liz (Audra McDonald) to conduct a sensitivity read on one of his comedians. This leads to a conversation on comedy and cancel&nbsp;culture. During a discussion between Marissa (Sarah Steele), Jay (Nyambi Nyambi), and Jim (Ifadansi Rashad), Jay says it feels like you now "need a permission slip to tell a joke." So, Jim prints some joke permits. Jay then wonders if there are any topics that are off-limits. "Um, necrophilia?" Jim replies. "No, that could be funny," Marissa responds. "Autism," Jay says. "Selena Gomez`s kidney transplant," Jim states. 
 
After watching the episode, several of Selena`s fans began tweeting 'Respect Selena Gomez.' 
 
"When will people stop doing this!! RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ," one follower tweeted.

Another wrote, "So we`re using Selena`s kidney transplant as a trend? Multiple times has this happened in media, it needs to stop. #RespectSelenaGomez."

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When will people stop doing this !!! RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ <a href="https://t.co/QdLX2PUTYo">pic.twitter.com/QdLX2PUTYo</a>
— me Lᴊ (@ikonictobi3) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikonictobi3/status/1422368233408155651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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That stupid tv show hasn’t said nothing yet! Truly unprofessional of them 
 
Respect Selena Gomez
— Selena Gomez Our World (@SelenaGQueenpop) <a href="https://twitter.com/SelenaGQueenpop/status/1422700441591291906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You don’t have to like Selena Gomez but you have to respect her privacy and you have to leave her alone when it comes to health. It is not even about Selena, you shouldn’t make fun of someone else’s disease in the first place.
— Yagiz (@mirrorballperry) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirrorballperry/status/1422702075524304896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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selena's transplant isn't something to joke about, she and francia deserve better 
 
RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ <a href="https://t.co/dcsmcEsUVJ">pic.twitter.com/dcsmcEsUVJ</a>
— ً (@taylenapicss) <a href="https://twitter.com/taylenapicss/status/1422367136983494656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
Gomez herself took to Twitter to discuss the scene. “I am not sure how writing jokes about organ transplants for television shows has become a thing but sadly it has apparently. I hope in the next writer’s room when one of these tasteless jokes are presented it’s called out immediately and doesn’t make it on air.”

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I am not sure how writing jokes about organ transplants for television shows has become a thing but sadly it has apparently. I hope in the next writer’s room when one of these tasteless jokes are presented it’s called out immediately and doesn’t make it on air.
— Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) <a href="https://twitter.com/selenagomez/status/1422700625599426561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This isn't the first time that Gomez' health has been discussed on a TV show. Last November, the `Saved by the Bell` reboot came under fire for scenes showing students gossiping over who donated the kidney and graffiti that read 'Does Selena Gomez Even Have A Kidney.' 
 
Francia Raisa, who donated one of her kidneys to Selena, also spoke out about the episode. After receiving backlash, Peacock, UTV, and executive producers issued an apology and the scenes were removed.&nbsp; 
 
The singer underwent kidney transplant in 2017.&nbsp;

A recent episode of 'The Good Fight' has not gone down well with pop star Selena Gomez or her fans. The episode referenced Selena's health battle which many felt was in bad taste.

A recent episode of 'The Good Fight' has not gone down well with pop star Selena Gomez or her fans. The episode referenced Selena's health battle which many felt was in bad taste. In season five, episode four, a comedy streaming executive Del (Wayne Brady) asks Liz (Audra McDonald) to conduct a sensitivity read on one of his comedians. This leads to a conversation on comedy and cancel culture. During a discussion between Marissa (Sarah Steele), Jay (Nyambi Nyambi), and Jim (Ifadansi Rashad), Jay says it feels like you now "need a permission slip to tell a joke." So, Jim prints some joke permits. Jay then wonders if there are any topics that are off-limits. "Um, necrophilia?" Jim replies. "No, that could be funny," Marissa responds. "Autism," Jay says. "Selena Gomez`s kidney transplant," Jim states. After watching the episode, several of Selena`s fans began tweeting 'Respect Selena Gomez.' "When will people stop doing this!! RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ," one follower tweeted. Another wrote, "So we`re using Selena`s kidney transplant as a trend? Multiple times has this happened in media, it needs to stop. #RespectSelenaGomez." When will people stop doing this !!! RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ pic.twitter.com/QdLX2PUTYo — me Lᴊ (@ikonictobi3) August 3, 2021 × That stupid tv show hasn’t said nothing yet! Truly unprofessional of them Respect Selena Gomez — Selena Gomez Our World (@SelenaGQueenpop) August 3, 2021 × You don’t have to like Selena Gomez but you have to respect her privacy and you have to leave her alone when it comes to health. It is not even about Selena, you shouldn’t make fun of someone else’s disease in the first place. — Yagiz (@mirrorballperry) August 3, 2021 × selena's transplant isn't something to joke about, she and francia deserve better RESPECT SELENA GOMEZ pic.twitter.com/dcsmcEsUVJ — ً (@taylenapicss) August 3, 2021 × Gomez herself took to Twitter to discuss the scene. “I am not sure how writing jokes about organ transplants for television shows has become a thing but sadly it has apparently. I hope in the next writer’s room when one of these tasteless jokes are presented it’s called out immediately and doesn’t make it on air.” I am not sure how writing jokes about organ transplants for television shows has become a thing but sadly it has apparently. I hope in the next writer’s room when one of these tasteless jokes are presented it’s called out immediately and doesn’t make it on air. — Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) August 3, 2021 × This isn't the first time that Gomez' health has been discussed on a TV show. Last November, the `Saved by the Bell` reboot came under fire for scenes showing students gossiping over who donated the kidney and graffiti that read 'Does Selena Gomez Even Have A Kidney.' Francia Raisa, who donated one of her kidneys to Selena, also spoke out about the episode. After receiving backlash, Peacock, UTV, and executive producers issued an apology and the scenes were removed. The singer underwent kidney transplant in 2017.

Selena Gomez and fans call out series 'The Good Fight' for making a joke on the singer's kidney transplant

Despite the prevalent risk of COVID-19, two critically ill patients at a Chennai hospital are currently stable after they received a new lease of life, thanks to a timely organ transplant.&nbsp;

An accident victim, a 27-year old male, was admitted to a private hospital in Salem, Tamil Nadu after he suffered a traumatic brain injury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-sterlite-claims-to-have-produced-over-542mt-of-liquid-medical-oxygen-for-tamil-nadu-390109" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Sterlite claims to have produced over 542MT of liquid medical oxygen for Tamil Nadu</a>

Despite the best efforts of the medical experts, he was declared brain dead during the course of his treatment. After an approved brain death certificate and thorough counseling, the family agreed to donate his organs.&nbsp;

His heart and lungs were retrieved by a team of experts in Salem and a green corridor was created between Salem and Chennai to transport both the vital organs. These organs were airlifted from Salem and transported to Chennai in two hours (a distance of over 350kms), using a chopper.

Experts at MGM Healthcare, Chennai performed life-saving surgeries to give a new lease of life to critically ill patients. Both the patients are stable and the surgeries were performed while following COVID-19 protocols. The remaining organs were dispatched to other hospitals.

Despite the prevalent risk of COVID-19, two critically ill patients at a Chennai hospital are currently stable after they received a new lease of life, thanks to a timely organ transplant.

Despite the prevalent risk of COVID-19, two critically ill patients at a Chennai hospital are currently stable after they received a new lease of life, thanks to a timely organ transplant. An accident victim, a 27-year old male, was admitted to a private hospital in Salem, Tamil Nadu after he suffered a traumatic brain injury. Also read | COVID-19: Sterlite claims to have produced over 542MT of liquid medical oxygen for Tamil Nadu Despite the best efforts of the medical experts, he was declared brain dead during the course of his treatment. After an approved brain death certificate and thorough counseling, the family agreed to donate his organs. His heart and lungs were retrieved by a team of experts in Salem and a green corridor was created between Salem and Chennai to transport both the vital organs. These organs were airlifted from Salem and transported to Chennai in two hours (a distance of over 350kms), using a chopper. Experts at MGM Healthcare, Chennai performed life-saving surgeries to give a new lease of life to critically ill patients. Both the patients are stable and the surgeries were performed while following COVID-19 protocols. The remaining organs were dispatched to other hospitals.

Chennai: Organs of 27-yr old accident victim flown by chopper, to give life to two patients

By Anshu Dubey

&nbsp;

“Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,”&nbsp;said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness.

Scully was told at the age of 21 that his kidney had failed and he was given three days to live. After a transplant, he went on to live for 30 years and at the time of his death was Ireland’s longest surviving kidney transplant recipient.

Indian-American entrepreneur Anil Srivats is one individual who changed his brother’s life by donating him a kidney back in 2014 - an event which changed his life for good.&nbsp;

Srivats started “Gift Of Life” Adventure - a series of overland expeditions aimed at spreading organ donation awareness. He hopes to encourage people to start a conversation on the subject. In an exclusive interview to WION, Srivats highlighted his vision and mission, his solutions for the standing issue and a message for people across the world on organ donation.

As he drove across 43 countries - being on the road for over 400 days and sharing his story with over 73,000 people - Srivats shared his experiences of living in his car and exploring some amazing events in this interview with us. Below are the excerpts from the interview:

WION: When was the first time you began this initiative? &nbsp;&nbsp;

Srivats: The first time was 6 months after my brother had the transplant. That was sometime in March 2015, when he and I went cycling to Spain to let people know that life can still be good after the transplant. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What was the major driving factor behind this initiative and the expedition?

Srivats: The idea was to let people know that after a kidney transplant life can be as normal or even as extraordinary as before. A lot of people I see are afraid. I gave my kidney to my brother and there are still over a million people in India who are looking for a kidney. My decision was based out of my love for my body. So the two questions I had with this whole thing was either there is not enough love or there is something else. That something else is common to everybody and that’s fear. They are afraid of what would happen to them if their life would be normal. There are not enough stories in the public media domain of live organ donors like us. You have plenty of stories of recipients. So there are not enough stories to show they are doing fine so others can have the courage and the confidence to do it. If I want to become the first story, I would like to add others’ stories, of people like me to my story and that’s how I started the foundation. Soon, I started to collect panel of speakers who are living with organ donors and hopefully we’ll start hearing their stories too. The fact that I started driving for this, allows me to get to the grassroots around the world and speak to people of all communities. Because I’m doing this, I also get the support and attention of the media around the world and my story goes out at a much larger scale. What I am doing is hard to do, but I enjoy it. Telling my story face to face to somebody is far more effective than shooting videos and putting it on social media. When I look into the whites of people’s eyes and them into mine, they are able to relate as I tell my story as a person who has actually done it, the impact is different. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What were your most unique experiences down the lane?

Srivats: Initially it was about crossing borders. Each border is different. What I have found is close to what Zee actually believes - Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam. Everywhere we’ve gone, 43 countries, people are generally good. There is so much good news in the world that we hardly see it on TV. Most of the people haven’t even heard about organ donation. There is so much to do in this space.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What solutions does India need where there is pendency for around 2 lakh kidneys and the availability is under 500?

Srivats: Indians are everywhere and we are probably the community that donates the least organs. I give you the statistics of England, 30 per cent of those waiting for an organ transplant are Indians in the UK because we have the highest susceptibility to kidney and liver failure because of our diet. If you look at the donor list in the UK, less than 4per cent are from the Indian subcontinent. There is an inherent problem as a community. India as a country has other issues, awareness is one of them. Two years ago I drove around India for 5 months. I was doing my 'Swades' moment and I found there is so much generosity in tier-2, tier-3 and rural India as compared to cities in India when it comes to organ donation. But unfortunately, there are not much collection or retrieval centres that they have access to. They want to donate but there is no place to donate. Infrastructure in India is the biggest issue and nobody is addressing this, otherwise, we would have solved this problem a long time ago had we just reached out and gone to their communities. The law in India is not easy, the infrastructure is not easy. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How do you fund your trips? &nbsp;&nbsp;

Srivats: I have sponsors, they take care of the hard costs, my travel. I live in my car, I cook in my car, I have a lot of my life in my car, so my car needs to be comfortable. My sponsors take care of that. But I still need to fuel the car, eat and stay in hotels once in a while when the weather is bad or when I feel it’s unsafe to stay in the car. That is crowd funded. I have fundraisers going on, even on Facebook. &nbsp;When I drive, I hold talks with schools, communities, senior centres, rotary clubs, I carry a hundi with me and people just contribute whatever they can and I use that money for fuel and food sometimes. It’s not easy but it’s a huge lesson in humility.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What kind of response do you mostly get?

Srivats: If I had to book a hall and sell tickets to people to come listen to me talk, I wouldn’t sell one ticket. So when I get into a captive audience where they insert me in an existing programme, not one person leaves the room because, obviously, my presentation skills have improved over time. I’ve done over 300 talks so I end up making people laugh like a standup comedian. &nbsp;But to get them in the room is really hard because the subject matter is not very interesting to anybody. We do not realise, we worship Lord Ganesha every year with huge pomp and show, he was the first recipient of an organ.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What is your message to people regarding organ donation? &nbsp; &nbsp;

Srivats: Organ donation is an act of love. It is something people need to consider for a couple of reasons. Even if we look at the way we conduct our last rites depending on our religion, some religions bury their bodies, some religions cremate and at the end of the day the basic premise of cremation is to put your body back in the universe - ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The Parsis put their bodies in the tower of silence, so even after death they can become food for the birds and be useful for the universe. Organ donation is no different, especially after we die. They're anyway doing things for our bodies to go back to the universe, so giving parts of our body to some human being who needs it is also part of the universe. So, the act of love has to come from inside and for that you need to get rid of the fear, because people are afraid for themselves and their next lives and they find a reason to say ‘no’ because they are afraid of something. If you are looking for a place in heaven, every religious scripture says “Jeevan daan hi sabse bada daan hai” (gift of life is the biggest gift possible). The only way to become an organ donor is to start a conversation at home. Signing up, especially in India is useless, because signing up is not legally recognized. I can sign up but the law gives my family the right to decide for me whether I want it or not. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Any country model that you see from where India can learn from?

Srivats: Unfortunately, India is learning the wrong things from every country. There are countries in Scandinavia and Europe and Ireland recently became an opt out country, which means every citizen of these countries is automatically an organ donor unless you opt out in writing that you don’t want to be and state the reason. This is because statistics have shown that people who opt out or people who opt in, the rate is the same. So you may as well make them organ donors by default as very few people will write in an opt-out. For a place like India where there are so many superstitious beliefs that are plaguing this humane act, if the law comes in place everybody will be forced to come on the way of humanity.

By Anshu Dubey “Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,” said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness.

By Anshu Dubey “Don’t take your organs to heaven, heaven knows we need them here,” said Maxie Scully who died on August 12, 2006, after a lifetime battle with an illness. Scully was told at the age of 21 that his kidney had failed and he was given three days to live. After a transplant, he went on to live for 30 years and at the time of his death was Ireland’s longest surviving kidney transplant recipient. Indian-American entrepreneur Anil Srivats is one individual who changed his brother’s life by donating him a kidney back in 2014 - an event which changed his life for good. Srivats started “Gift Of Life” Adventure - a series of overland expeditions aimed at spreading organ donation awareness. He hopes to encourage people to start a conversation on the subject. In an exclusive interview to WION, Srivats highlighted his vision and mission, his solutions for the standing issue and a message for people across the world on organ donation. As he drove across 43 countries - being on the road for over 400 days and sharing his story with over 73,000 people - Srivats shared his experiences of living in his car and exploring some amazing events in this interview with us. Below are the excerpts from the interview: WION: When was the first time you began this initiative? Srivats: The first time was 6 months after my brother had the transplant. That was sometime in March 2015, when he and I went cycling to Spain to let people know that life can still be good after the transplant. WION: What was the major driving factor behind this initiative and the expedition? Srivats: The idea was to let people know that after a kidney transplant life can be as normal or even as extraordinary as before. A lot of people I see are afraid. I gave my kidney to my brother and there are still over a million people in India who are looking for a kidney. My decision was based out of my love for my body. So the two questions I had with this whole thing was either there is not enough love or there is something else. That something else is common to everybody and that’s fear. They are afraid of what would happen to them if their life would be normal. There are not enough stories in the public media domain of live organ donors like us. You have plenty of stories of recipients. So there are not enough stories to show they are doing fine so others can have the courage and the confidence to do it. If I want to become the first story, I would like to add others’ stories, of people like me to my story and that’s how I started the foundation. Soon, I started to collect panel of speakers who are living with organ donors and hopefully we’ll start hearing their stories too. The fact that I started driving for this, allows me to get to the grassroots around the world and speak to people of all communities. Because I’m doing this, I also get the support and attention of the media around the world and my story goes out at a much larger scale. What I am doing is hard to do, but I enjoy it. Telling my story face to face to somebody is far more effective than shooting videos and putting it on social media. When I look into the whites of people’s eyes and them into mine, they are able to relate as I tell my story as a person who has actually done it, the impact is different. WION: What were your most unique experiences down the lane? Srivats: Initially it was about crossing borders. Each border is different. What I have found is close to what Zee actually believes - Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam. Everywhere we’ve gone, 43 countries, people are generally good. There is so much good news in the world that we hardly see it on TV. Most of the people haven’t even heard about organ donation. There is so much to do in this space. WION: What solutions does India need where there is pendency for around 2 lakh kidneys and the availability is under 500? Srivats: Indians are everywhere and we are probably the community that donates the least organs. I give you the statistics of England, 30 per cent of those waiting for an organ transplant are Indians in the UK because we have the highest susceptibility to kidney and liver failure because of our diet. If you look at the donor list in the UK, less than 4per cent are from the Indian subcontinent. There is an inherent problem as a community. India as a country has other issues, awareness is one of them. Two years ago I drove around India for 5 months. I was doing my 'Swades' moment and I found there is so much generosity in tier-2, tier-3 and rural India as compared to cities in India when it comes to organ donation. But unfortunately, there are not much collection or retrieval centres that they have access to. They want to donate but there is no place to donate. Infrastructure in India is the biggest issue and nobody is addressing this, otherwise, we would have solved this problem a long time ago had we just reached out and gone to their communities. The law in India is not easy, the infrastructure is not easy. WION: How do you fund your trips? Srivats: I have sponsors, they take care of the hard costs, my travel. I live in my car, I cook in my car, I have a lot of my life in my car, so my car needs to be comfortable. My sponsors take care of that. But I still need to fuel the car, eat and stay in hotels once in a while when the weather is bad or when I feel it’s unsafe to stay in the car. That is crowd funded. I have fundraisers going on, even on Facebook. When I drive, I hold talks with schools, communities, senior centres, rotary clubs, I carry a hundi with me and people just contribute whatever they can and I use that money for fuel and food sometimes. It’s not easy but it’s a huge lesson in humility. WION: What kind of response do you mostly get? Srivats: If I had to book a hall and sell tickets to people to come listen to me talk, I wouldn’t sell one ticket. So when I get into a captive audience where they insert me in an existing programme, not one person leaves the room because, obviously, my presentation skills have improved over time. I’ve done over 300 talks so I end up making people laugh like a standup comedian. But to get them in the room is really hard because the subject matter is not very interesting to anybody. We do not realise, we worship Lord Ganesha every year with huge pomp and show, he was the first recipient of an organ. WION: What is your message to people regarding organ donation? Srivats: Organ donation is an act of love. It is something people need to consider for a couple of reasons. Even if we look at the way we conduct our last rites depending on our religion, some religions bury their bodies, some religions cremate and at the end of the day the basic premise of cremation is to put your body back in the universe - ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The Parsis put their bodies in the tower of silence, so even after death they can become food for the birds and be useful for the universe. Organ donation is no different, especially after we die. They're anyway doing things for our bodies to go back to the universe, so giving parts of our body to some human being who needs it is also part of the universe. So, the act of love has to come from inside and for that you need to get rid of the fear, because people are afraid for themselves and their next lives and they find a reason to say ‘no’ because they are afraid of something. If you are looking for a place in heaven, every religious scripture says “Jeevan daan hi sabse bada daan hai” (gift of life is the biggest gift possible). The only way to become an organ donor is to start a conversation at home. Signing up, especially in India is useless, because signing up is not legally recognized. I can sign up but the law gives my family the right to decide for me whether I want it or not. WION: Any country model that you see from where India can learn from? Srivats: Unfortunately, India is learning the wrong things from every country. There are countries in Scandinavia and Europe and Ireland recently became an opt out country, which means every citizen of these countries is automatically an organ donor unless you opt out in writing that you don’t want to be and state the reason. This is because statistics have shown that people who opt out or people who opt in, the rate is the same. So you may as well make them organ donors by default as very few people will write in an opt-out. For a place like India where there are so many superstitious beliefs that are plaguing this humane act, if the law comes in place everybody will be forced to come on the way of humanity.

Indian-American entrepreneur travels across globe to promote organ donation, calls it 'act of love'

Indian American entrepreneur Anil Shrivats donated a kidney to his brother in 2014. Since then, he has become what he had never done - a champion of organ donation.

Anil Srivatsa Driving Around the World To Raise Awareness About Organ Donation

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