On September 30, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, an Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, was invited to deliver an awareness session on organ donation for Arts students at St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Mapusa. This was the second time that MOHAN Foundation had been invited to address the higher secondary students of the institution.
Gabriel introduced himself as an Organ Donation Ambassador and explained the role of an ambassador, along with the presence of MOHAN Foundation offices across 13 locations in India. To engage the students, he posed a question: If someone dies at home, can that person donate their organs? While some students responded affirmatively and others were unsure, Gabriel clarified that in the case of circulatory death at home, only the whole body and certain tissues—such as corneas and skin—can be donated. However, in cases of brain death, which may occur due to a road traffic accident or brain haemorrhage, organ donation is possible with the consent of the next of kin. He emphasized that anyone wishing to be an organ donor should communicate this decision to their family.
He further shared that August 3, 1994, marks the date of the first successful heart transplant in India, a milestone that led to the observance of Indian Organ Donation Day, following the enactment of the Transplantation of Human Organs Act on July 8, 1994.
Gabriel also presented a video explaining brain death and highlighted its significance. He explained that while a person may be clinically declared dead, their organs can continue functioning on ventilator support for a short time, during which families may choose to give consent for organ donation.
The session was well received, with students expressing their gratitude and acknowledging that they had gained valuable insights into organ donation. Approximately 70 students participated in the talk.
Gabriel concluded by extending thanks to the Principal, Mrs. Victoria S. de Souza; Vice Principal, Rev. Fr. Agnelo P. Fernandes; the Management of the Institute; Mr. Suryakumar Phadte, NSS In-Charge; and the coordinator for organising the session and facilitating the involvement of the MOHAN Foundation.
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