Mangaluru's 65-Year-Old Donor Gives Life Through Multi-Organ Transplant
In a poignant act of generosity, a successful multi-organ donation was conducted at Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) in Mangaluru on Sunday, with the donor becoming the district's eldest to offer such a gift. The donation followed the declaration of brain death of Dayakar Kotian, aged 65, after a severe road accident.
Accident and Medical Intervention
Dayakar Kotian, originally from Bajpe and residing in Kolar, sustained critical injuries in a road accident on February 22 at Malur, Kolar. He was transferred to FMMCH for advanced neurosurgical and critical care under the supervision of Dr. CK Ballal, senior consultant neurosurgeon, along with dedicated intensive care teams. Despite comprehensive medical efforts, Kotian was declared brain dead after mandatory clinical examinations and apnoea tests, conducted in strict adherence to medical and legal protocols.
Family Consent and Organ Allocation
The transplant coordination team and medical staff counseled Kotian's family about the possibility of organ donation. His wife, Surekha, brother Keshav Poojary, and other family members provided full consent, demonstrating remarkable courage during a difficult time. The State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO – Jeevasarthakathe) was promptly informed, and organ allocation proceeded according to state guidelines.
After completing medico-legal formalities under the Mangaluru East Traffic police station, the organ retrieval process commenced at 2 PM on March 1. The left kidney was allocated to Kasturba Hospital in Manipal, while the right kidney went to NU Hospital in Shivamogga. Additionally, skin was harvested, and corneas were retrieved for use at FMMCH. The department of forensic medicine conducted the required post-mortem, and the mortal remains were respectfully handed over to the family at 6 PM.
Gratitude and Recognition
In a heartfelt ceremony held on Tuesday, Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, honored Surekha and the family for their selfless donation, which has provided renewed hope to multiple recipients. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, administrator of FMMC, and Dr. Uday Kumar, medical superintendent of FMMCH, were present at the event, acknowledging the family's contribution.
This donation marks the seventh organ donation at FMMCH, highlighting the hospital's ongoing commitment to transplant initiatives and community health. The story underscores the critical importance of organ donation in saving lives and the profound impact of family decisions during times of loss.
