Three organ donors at PGI Chandigarh bring new life and vision to many

Chandigarh: In a remarkable display of generosity, families of three brain dead patients donated organs that saved nine lives and restored sight to two corneal blind patients at PGIMER and other hospitals in August 2025. The donations highlight the life-changing impact of organ donation and the courage of families during difficult times.

On August 27, 2025, a man in his 50s from Patiala, who had suffered severe head injuries, was declared brain stem dead. His family agreed to donate his organs, allowing his kidneys to be transplanted at PGIMER in Chandigarh. His heart was transported via a green corridor to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi for transplantation. Although his liver was allocated to Max Hospital, Saket, it could not be used. Additionally, his corneas were recovered and transplanted to two patients suffering from corneal blindness, giving them the gift of sight.

Earlier, on August 21, 2025, a man in his mid-30s from Hisar, who became brain stem dead following a road accident, had both his kidneys transplanted at PGIMER. The recipients were patients suffering from end-stage renal failure, and the transplants provided them a new chance at life. These donations demonstrate how one person’s tragic loss can become a source of hope for others.

Prior to these cases, on August 8, 2025, a young woman in her 20s from Patiala, who was declared brain stem dead after a road accident, became the source of hope for four patients. Her kidneys, pancreas, and liver were transplanted at PGIMER, while her lungs were airlifted via a green corridor to a hospital in Chennai. Her organs gave new life to patients suffering from organ failure and serious medical conditions.

These donations were not limited to PGIMER. Several organs were shared with leading hospitals across the country, ensuring that patients in need received timely transplants. The coordinated effort of hospital staff, transport teams, and surgeons ensured that all organs reached the intended recipients quickly, maintaining viability and improving outcomes.

Dr Vivek Lal, director of PGIMER, expressed his gratitude and admiration for the families who chose to donate organs in such challenging times. He said, “In these three instances, we witnessed families, in their darkest hour, turning their personal tragedy into a lifesaving mission for others. PGIMER salutes their noble spirit and reaffirms its commitment to strengthening organ donation in the region.”

The cases also underline the importance of organ donation awareness in India. Despite medical advances, the number of organ donors is still limited. Each donor can save multiple lives, and families consenting to donation make a significant difference to patients awaiting transplants. Hospitals like PGIMER actively encourage organ donation and provide support to families in understanding the process and its impact.

Impact of organ donation on patients and community

Organ donation not only saves lives but also brings hope to families and communities. In these three cases, a total of nine patients received organs that cured life-threatening conditions, while two others regained their eyesight. The successful transplants demonstrate the effectiveness of hospital coordination, surgical expertise, and emergency transport facilities like green corridors, which ensure organs reach their destinations quickly.

The stories also emphasize that organ donation is possible even in tragic situations. Families of brain dead patients often face emotional stress, but their decision to donate organs can transform grief into an act of profound generosity. It also helps raise awareness about organ donation, encouraging more people to pledge their organs in advance or support the cause when approached by hospitals.

PGIMER continues to lead efforts in organ transplantation and donation in North India. The hospital has a structured system for identifying potential donors, counseling families, retrieving organs, and coordinating with other hospitals to ensure timely transplants. These efforts not only save lives but also improve public trust in the organ donation process.

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The recent cases in Patiala and Hisar highlight the critical role of quick decision-making and consent from families. Efficient transport of organs, such as the use of green corridors for hearts and lungs, ensures that organs remain viable and patients receive them on time. Coordination between hospitals, transplant teams, and authorities plays a key role in achieving successful outcomes.

Dr Lal stressed that each organ donation carries immense emotional and social value. “Every organ that is donated is a chance for someone to live, recover, and contribute to society. It is a reminder that even in loss, we can create hope and change lives,” he said.

In conclusion, the three organ donations in August 2025 from patients in Patiala and Hisar saved nine lives and restored sight to two blind patients, demonstrating the power of human kindness and medical collaboration. The efforts of hospital teams, emergency transport networks, and the families’ willingness to donate highlight the critical importance of organ donation in India. PGIMER continues to encourage more families to consider donation, helping to save and improve lives across the country.