In a moving testament to human compassion, a family from Odisha’s Rourkela won hearts after they decided to donate the organs of their son after his untimely demise. Ashok Lenka and Pratibha Nayak from Rourkela made the noble choice following the tragic death of their one-year-old son, Janmesh Lenka.
Janmesh was being treated in AIIMS Bhubaneswar for severe health complications. After learning the devastating news that Janmesh was brain-dead, his family made the magnanimous decision to donate his organs, offering the precious gift of life to others in need.
Inspiring Legacy Through Organ Donation:
Despite their immense grief, Janmesha's parents agreed to donate his organs to help others in need. Janmesh’s kidneys were matched with patients in AIIMS Bhubaneswar while his liver was transported to AIIMS Delhi. This selfless act not only provided a lifeline to patients awaiting transplants but also highlights the significance of organ donation.
Honouring Life and Death:
Their act of generosity highlights the bravery and benevolence of the family, even as they navigate their personal grief. In respect of the sacrifice, the Odisha government, in accordance with local traditions and state regulations, paid their respects by providing a guard of honour for Janmesh.
The family's decision serves as a poignant reminder of how the generosity of organ donation can bring hope and life to others, reflecting a deep-seated cultural value of giving within the Indian context.
Generosity of Janmesh’s Parents:
“Doctors tried their best. Unfortunately, we could not save my son because he was brain-dead. He has indeed died, but he is alive again by donating his kidney and liver. We decided to donate both his organs in the hope that his organs could save someone’s life. He has given a new life before departing from us. We are heartbroken on his loss, but we are also elated that someone has got a new lease of life because of him,” said the little boy’s father, Ashok Lenka.
Likewise, his mother, Pratibha Nayak, said, “It was a very hard decision for us and our family members. Nevertheless, we decided to go ahead with the organ donation as I cannot get my son back, but at least some other person can get a new lease of life.”