Award Instituted In Memory Of Odisha Youth Whose Organs Infused Life Into Others

Bhubaneswar: Odisha government on Monday announced cash award of Rs 5 lakh for the family of Suraj Behera of Ganjam district for the humanitarian act of donating six vital organs of their brain dead son to save lives of several people. Earlier, OTV had telecast a report last week on the family’s decision to donate the vital organs of their son Suraj who met with an accident on October 29 in Surat where he worked at a cloth manufacturing company.

Despite efforts by a team of doctors, Suraj’s condition deteriorated and he was declared brain dead on November 1. However, all his vital organs were working fine. His heart was subsequently transported to Mumbai within 69 minutes where another surgery was conducted to transplant the organ into a woman’s body. Suraj’s other organs were transplanted in the bodies of four other persons to save their lives

As per senior officials, the state government will provide a homestead land and Biju Pucca ghar to Suraj’s family. In addition an annual award will be instituted in the name of Suraj to felicitate organ donors. The move is likely to play a crucial role in creating awareness among people towards organ donation.

“Suraj had met with an accident and declared brain dead. Several NGOs had approached the family and they agreed to donate six vital organs (Kidneys, liver, heart and both eyes) of their son. Odisha CM has announced to provide all assistance to the family,” said senior BJD leader Bikram Arukh.

“My son wanted to donate his organs. I am happy that his decision has ensured new life to several people,” said Babuli, father of late Suraj.