207 persons from tricity pledge their organs

An Organ Donation Awareness Campaign organised by the PGIMER at the Chandigarh Carnival received an impressive response. PGI’s Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO), through the campaign, was able to get 207 individuals pledge their support for organ donation.

The initiative aimed at educating the public on life-saving potential of organ donation engaged visitors through insightful interactions with the ROTTO team. Just a week ago, the PGIMER showcased an exemplary result of organ donation as eight lives were saved after families of two patients opted for organ donation at the hospital.

The ROTTO campaign featured interactive displays, informative pamphlets and one-on-one discussions, all designed to encourage the visitors to consider becoming organ donors. The enthusiastic response from the community ensured a strong commitment to the noble cause.

Announcements were made from time to time at the carnival to deliver the message in an entertaining way.

A team of counsellors and young volunteers anchor a game of musical chairs and as they play along, more people join in. After that, the concept of organ donation is explained in an entertaining way. For instance, a person in ‘Yamraj’ getup explains how it’s important to donate even after death, while everybody wants to donate to the poor and needy for good karma in their lifetime.

The motivated visitors also shared their reasons for pledging their support to the cause. A couple, Manpreet Kaur and Baljot Singh, after enlisting for organ donation shared, “Pledging to donate our organs gives us a sense of fulfilment. Knowing I can save lives is deeply gratifying.”

One organ donor can impact the lives of up to eight transplant recipients and increase lifespan of 75 others through organ, eye and tissue donation. Pardeep Kumar, after making the noble move, shared, “Pledging my organs means that a part of me can live on by helping others. It’s a small act with a massive impact.”

Satnam Singh also acknowledged, “I had never thought deeply about the organ donation until today’s camp, which opened my eyes to how I can save lives. I’m proud to make this pledge.”

Prof Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Nodal Officer of ROTTO, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “We are truly humbled by the response we have received at the Chandigarh Carnival. ROTTO PGIMER is dedicated to conducting these awareness camps regularly, as they are vital for educating the public and inspiring contributions to this life-saving mission.”

The counsellors also busted misconceptions, especially among youngsters who often think that only the old people like their parents or grandparents can take a pledge for organ donation.

The sentiments of a young Ankita who visited the stall summed it up perfectly, “Knowing that I can offer someone a second chance at life is incredibly empowering. I’m grateful for this opportunity to make a difference.”