On December 7, 2025, Gabriel Pereira, an organ donation ambassador from the MOHAN Foundation, set up an organ donation information desk at Dr Amshekar’s Valpoi Marathon Run for Fitness held in Valpoi, Satteri, Goa.
Dr Ashok Amshekar, founder of the Valpoi Marathon, is a visionary leader committed to promoting health, fitness, and community spirit in Valpoi. The marathon began at the Government Higher Secondary School Ground at 6 a.m., offering three race categories: 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km. More than 800 individuals had registered for the event.
Dr Dattaram Desai, President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Goa State, served as the chief guest. Mr Umesh Dhavalikar, a liver recipient, was honoured for his remarkable achievements at national and international transplant games, which have brought recognition to both Goa and India.
Gabriel interacted with participants after their registration and again at the conclusion of the marathon. He discussed the current number of individuals on the organ transplant waiting list in Goa and highlighted the licensed transplant hospitals in the state. He explained that, at present, only kidney and corneal transplants are performed in Goa. With eight brain dead declarations recorded, 16 patients in Goa have received kidneys. Other organs, including hearts, lungs, and livers, were allocated through the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO). He also informed attendees that the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO) manages organ allocation within each state.
Gabriel distributed around 200 flyers addressing frequently asked questions about organ donation, which led to 10 individuals pledging to become organ donors.
At the end of the event, Gabriel expressed his gratitude to Dr Ashok Amshekar and his son, Dr Omkar A. Amshekar, for giving the MOHAN Foundation the opportunity to participate in this important community initiative.
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