On June 13, 2026, Ms. Jaya Jairam, Project Director, MOHAN Foundation Mumbai, addressed 300 leaders from Lions International districts representing Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Palghar at their Residential Leadership Bootcamp held at DGV Treat Resort, Silvassa. The session focused on creating awareness about organ donation and highlighted the urgent need to bridge the gap between the growing demand for organ transplants and the limited availability of donor organs in India. Drawing from her personal journey as a kidney transplant recipient and her extensive experience in the field, Ms. Jairam spoke about the importance of deceased organ donation, eye donation, and tissue donation while addressing common myths, explaining brain death, and emphasizing the significance of informed family consent.
The session highlighted the unique role Lions Clubs can play in advancing organ donation awareness through their extensive community network and commitment to service. Participants were encouraged to organize awareness programmes, pledge campaigns, educational talks, and collaborations with hospitals and MOHAN Foundation to promote accurate information and inspire families to discuss organ donation. The discussion also emphasized how sustained community engagement can help normalize conversations around organ donation and contribute to saving more lives. The programme concluded with a call for every Lions Club to champion organ donation as an ongoing community service initiative and for members to sign up as 'Organ Donation Ambassadors'. By taking on this role, they can help create awareness, dispel misconceptions, encourage informed family discussions, and inspire more people to pledge their organs, ultimately giving the gift of life to patients awaiting a transplant.
The session was well received, with Lions leaders actively connecting with Ms Jaya, discussing and raising questions on the ethical, legal, and practical aspects of organ donation and eagerly wanting to sign up for the Organ Donation Ambassador training. MOHAN Foundation thanks Mr Rajesh Agarwala for partnering MOHAN Foundation and taking this project up as one of the priority projects amongst the LIONS.
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