In a remarkable act of generosity, the family of a 46-year-old woman at Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh made the courageous decision to donate her organs after she was declared brain dead following a tragic incident.
This selfless act enabled the successful transplantation of her two kidneys, two lungs, and one liver, giving a second lease of life to multiple patients in dire need of organ transplants.
A Legacy of Hope Through Organ Donation
The woman was admitted to Fortis Hospital in critical condition on March 19, 2025. Despite intensive medical efforts, she was declared brain dead on March 27, 2025. During their moment of immense grief, the bereaved family chose to donate her organs, offering hope and a fresh start to several patients.
Dr. Rakesh Dua, Senior Director & HOD, Neurosurgery, emphasized the significance of this compassionate choice, stating:
“This case touchingly highlights how even in moments of profound loss, individuals have the power to create a legacy that extends far beyond their lives. Our dedicated team worked tirelessly to ensure that the process was handled with the utmost respect and professional care, honoring the donor’s legacy in a way that truly reflected the magnitude of the decision.”
Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Senior Director-Critical Care, also expressed deep appreciation for the family’s decision, saying: “The care of critically ill patients requires not just exceptional medical skills but a profound commitment to empathetically aligning with the wishes of both the patients and their families. This donation not only showcases the life-sustaining impact of such decisions but also serves as a powerful reminder of the ripple effect one person’s selfless act can have on the broader community.”
Deepak Narang, Facility Director, commended the hospital’s collaborative efforts, stating:
“The collaborative effort across departments during the organ retrieval and transplantation was truly inspirational. We are deeply thankful to the donor’s family for their generosity during this incredibly difficult time.”
Successful Transplantations Across India
The donor’s organs were allocated to multiple hospitals based on medical urgency:
– The liver and one kidney were transplanted at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, directly benefiting patients in urgent need.
– The second kidney was sent to Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.
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– The lungs were transported to KIMS Hospitals, Secunderabad, helping another critically ill recipient.
Understanding the Organ Donation Process
According to NOTTO (National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization), once a patient is declared brain dead, the hospital is required to counsel the family about the possibility of organ donation. The treating hospital follows NOTTO protocols and guidelines, obtaining the necessary clearances before proceeding with organ retrieval.
India faces a severe shortage of organ donors. Reports from NOTTO estimate that 1.5 lakh Indians lose their lives annually due to a lack of organ transplants, while approximately 50,000 patients remain on the waiting list. Raising awareness and encouraging more organ donations can help bridge this gap and save countless lives.
Fortis Hospital’s Commitment to Organ Donation Awareness
This heartwarming act of kindness underscores the life-changing impact of organ donation. Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh remains committed to spreading awareness, supporting families through the donation process, and building a community that embraces this noble cause.
By choosing to donate, this 46-year-old woman and her family have set an inspiring example, proving that even in loss, one can offer the gift of life to others.