On July 29, 2024, Mr. Bulu Behera, a transplant coordinator from the MOHAN Foundation, was invited by Ms. Suchitra Nayak, a class teacher at London Kids, to give a talk on organ donation during a progress meeting with parents. The session was designed to raise awareness and provide comprehensive information about organ donation.
Mr. Behera began by explaining what constitutes an organ. An organ is a complex structure composed of tissues that work together to perform essential bodily functions, such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. He then discussed who can donate organs, noting that both living and deceased individuals are eligible to donate. Living donors typically contribute kidneys or part of the liver, while deceased donors can provide a range of organs and tissues.
The talk covered the different types of death and their implications for organ donation. Brain death, which is the irreversible loss of all brain function, allows for the donation of major organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, and intestines. In contrast, natural death generally makes organ donation unsuitable, although tissues like corneas, skin, and bones can still be donated.
Mr. Behera clarified the distinction between organs and tissues. Organs are vital structures like kidneys and hearts that carry out major functions in the body, while tissues, such as corneas and skin, are more basic and can be donated to help others without affecting overall organ function. He also addressed the age limits for organ donation, explaining that while there is no strict age limit, the suitability of organs for donation is assessed based on their condition and the donor’s overall health.
The process of eye donation was explained, emphasizing that corneas should be donated within 6 hours of death to restore vision for those with corneal blindness. Body donation, which involves donating the entire body for medical research and education, was also discussed. This process should be arranged with consent before death.
Mr. Behera provided details on the procedures for both live and cadaver transplants. Live transplants involve donating organs such as kidneys or part of the liver from living individuals, while cadaver transplants involve retrieving organs from deceased donors. He elaborated on the rules and regulations governing organ donation, including the Organ Transplant Act 1994, which ensures ethical practices and informed consent. Additionally, he discussed the roles of organizations like NOTTO, ROTTO, SOTTO, and ZTCC, which coordinate organ donations and transplants at various levels.
The importance of a donor card and the role of the helpline number were highlighted. A donor card indicates an individual's wish to donate organs, ensuring their preferences are respected. The helpline provides support and information related to organ donation. The role of the MOHAN Foundation was also emphasized, noting its efforts in promoting organ donation awareness, educating the public, and supporting the donation process.
During the session, participants asked questions regarding the importance of a donor card and whether a kidney donated by an individual could be allocated to a family member in need. Mr. Behera addressed these questions, clarifying that while donor organs are generally allocated based on need and compatibility, family members might receive priority under specific circumstances. However, the process is carefully regulated to ensure fairness and medical suitability.
Approximately 12 parents attended the talk. Of these, 2 signed consent forms for organ donation on-site, while the remaining parents opted to sign consent forms online. Special thanks are due to Ms. Suchitra Nayak for facilitating this important discussion and supporting the noble cause of organ donation.
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