Chandigarh: The organ donation awareness campaign organised by PGIMER at the Chandigarh Carnival received an impressive response. Through this campaign, the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO) of PGI got 207 individuals to pledge their support for organ donation. The initiative aimed to educate people about the life-saving potential of organ donation by engaging visitors with the ROTTO team through hands-on interactions. Just a week ago, PGIMER had showcased an exemplary outcome of organ donation, wherein eight lives were saved after the families of two patients at the hospital opted for organ donation. The ROTTO campaign included interactive displays, informative pamphlets and one-on-one discussions, all designed to encourage visitors to consider becoming organ donors. The enthusiastic response from the community ensured a strong commitment to this noble cause. Announcements were made from time to time at the carnival to convey the message in an entertaining manner. A team of counsellors and young volunteers play a game of musical chairs and as they play, more people join in. After that, the concept of organ donation is explained in a fun way. For instance, a man in the getup of ‘Yamraj’ explains how important it is to donate organs even after death, while everyone wants to donate to the poor and needy for good deeds in their lifetime. The motivated visitors also shared their reasons for pledging their support for the cause. “Pledging to donate our organs gives us a sense of satisfaction. Knowing that I can save lives is very gratifying,” shared a couple, Manpreet Kaur and Baljot Singh, after enrolling for organ donation. One organ donor can impact the lives of eight transplant recipients and increase the lifespan of 75 others through organ, eye and tissue donation. Pradeep Kumar shared after taking the noble step, “Donating my organs means that a part of me can live on by helping others. It is a small act that has a huge impact.”
Satnam Singh also admitted, “I had never thought deeply about organ donation before today’s camp, which opened my eyes to how I can save lives. I am proud to take this pledge.” Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, Professor Vipin Kaushal, Medical Superintendent and Nodal Officer, Rotto, said, “We are truly overwhelmed by the response we have received at the Chandigarh Carnival. Rotto PGIMER is dedicated to organizing these awareness camps on a regular basis, as these are important to educate people and inspire them to contribute to this life-saving mission.” The counsellors also dispelled misconceptions, especially among the youth, who often think that only elderly people like their parents or grandparents can pledge to donate organs. Ankita, a youngster who visited the stall, summed it up perfectly, “Knowing that I can give someone a second chance at life is incredibly empowering. I am grateful for this opportunity to make a difference.”
