On September 26, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, was invited by RTN Dr. Sandhya to deliver an awareness talk on organ donation for the Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Miramar in Panjim, Goa.
The talk was held during the club’s regular meeting and featured testimonies from transplant recipients: Mr. Umesh Dhavalikar, a liver transplant recipient, and Mr. Mark Rocha and Mr. Zeon Romano, both kidney transplant recipients, who shared their personal journeys and experiences.
Mr. Pereira introduced himself and highlighted the role of the MOHAN Foundation in Goa and across India. He informed members that currently around 80 people in Goa are awaiting kidney transplants, as kidney and corneal tissue transplants are the only procedures performed in the state at present.
Through a PowerPoint presentation, Mr. Pereira explained key concepts of organ donation. He emphasised that only a brain-dead individual can become an organ donor, with family consent being essential. He also noted that in cases of circulatory death, tissues and even the entire body can be donated.
His talk further covered important aspects such as:
1. The Transplantation of Human Organs Act, established in 1994
2. Licensed transplant hospitals in Goa
3. The procedure for obtaining a donor card
The Rotarians greatly appreciated the session, gaining deeper insights into organ donation, particularly through the impactful testimonies of the recipients who spoke about their challenges, struggles, and successes.
Mr. Pereira concluded by expressing his gratitude to Mr. Sandesh Gadvi, President of the club, and to all Rotarians for their support in hosting the awareness program on behalf of the MOHAN Foundation. He also extended heartfelt thanks to Mark, Umesh, and Zeon for sharing their powerful testimonies.
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