On November 21, 2024, the MOHAN Foundation organized an organ donation awareness stall at Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, located at Digdoh, Hingna Road, Nagpur. The event was coordinated by Mr. Bulu J. Behera, the Transplant Coordinator at the MOHAN Foundation, who was invited by Dr. Mayank Gadkari, the Admin In-charge of Lata Mangeshkar Hospital.

The primary aim of the stall was to educate OPD patients and their relatives about the importance of organ and tissue donation. Mr. Bulu Behera provided valuable information on several crucial aspects of organ donation. He explained the concept of organ and tissue donation and clarified which organs can be donated after both natural death and brain death. Mr. Behera also addressed the time factors involved in both organ and tissue transplants, emphasizing the importance of timely action. He discussed the age criteria for organ donation, ensuring that the audience understood that organ donation can be considered within a wide age range, depending on various factors.

Ethical and legal aspects related to organ donation were also highlighted, providing the attendees with a clear understanding of the guidelines and laws surrounding donation. Furthermore, Mr. Behera shared details about the MOHAN Foundation’s ongoing initiatives and activities aimed at promoting organ donation awareness. He also emphasized the significance of the donor card and the helpline number, which are essential for individuals who wish to become organ donors. In addition, he informed attendees about the financial support available for organ transplants through various government schemes. Lastly, Mr. Behera addressed the importance of body donation, as well as the possibilities of hand and leg transplants.

Approximately 40 visitors visited the stall, and the session was impactful, 2 individuals signed consent forms to become organ donors. Throughout the event, several participants raised important questions regarding organ donation.

 Some of the key queries included:

• What is the cost of a kidney transplant?
• Are diabetic patients eligible to donate a kidney?

The MOHAN Foundation extends its gratitude to Dr. Mayank Gadkari for providing the opportunity to speak about the critical subject of organ donation and transplantation to the OPD patients and their families. The foundation remains committed to raising awareness and supporting individuals who wish to contribute to the noble cause of organ donation.