Organ Donation – The Highest Expression of Humanity

Introduction

One of the highest qualities of human life is the willingness to save the lives of others. Even after a person’s death, their organs can give a new life to many people. The organ donation by 10-month-old Aline Shereen Abraham from Kerala and 8-year-old girl Venba from Coimbatore stands as a remarkable example of humanity.

1. Importance of Organ Donation

Organ Donation refers to the process of transplanting organs from a deceased or brain-dead person to patients who are in need through transplant surgery. Through this process, organs such as heart, liver, kidney, lungs and eyes (cornea) can give a new life to many people.

2. The Case of Aline Shereen Abraham

Aline Shereen Abraham, a 10-month-old baby from Kottayam in Kerala, suffered severe injuries in a road accident and was declared brain dead. After this, her parents and family decided to donate the child’s organs. Through this noble act, several patients received a chance to survive. She is remembered as the youngest organ donor in Kerala.

3. Venba – A Humanitarian Example from Tamil Nadu

Venba, an 8-year-old student from Coimbatore district, also became brain dead, after which her organs were donated. Through this act, four people received a new life. The Tamil Nadu Government announced in 2023 that organ donors will be given state honours during their final rites. So far, 653 donors have received state honours.

4. Status of Organ Donation in India

Organ donation in India is still very low. Every year, more than 2 lakh kidneys are required, but only about 12,500 are available. Nearly 5 lakh people die every year due to the non-availability of organs. The organ donation rate is only 0.85 per million population, which is very low compared to global standards.

5. Barriers to Organ Donation

Several factors act as barriers to organ donation such as religious beliefs, social attitudes, lack of awareness, and the emotional condition of families. Another social issue is that 80% of organ donors are women, while 80% of organ recipients are men. This reflects the gender imbalance present in society.

6. Legal Framework

The main law regulating organ transplantation in India is the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994. It was amended in 2011. This law regulates brain-death certification, organ transplantation procedures, and rules to prevent the commercial trade of organs.

Conclusion / Way Forward

Children like Aline Abraham and Venba have conveyed a powerful message of humanity to society. If awareness about organ donation increases among the public, thousands of lives can be saved. Therefore, the government, medical institutions, and media must work together to strengthen awareness campaigns.