Turning grief into life: Two Bengaluru families opt for organ donation after tragedy

Dr. Sandhya Photo Credit: Special Arrangements

The city recently witnessed two acts of selflessness, as organs of people who tragically lost their lives were donated to save others.

The first case involved 25-year-old Sandhya, whose family chose to honor her commitment to serving others through organ donation after she died of a life-threatening brain injury. The young doctor from Devanahalli had a bright future ahead of him. On December 6, his life took a tragic turn when he met with a road accident while riding a two-wheeler with his father. She suffered a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) after hitting a road divider.

He was rushed to Manipal Hospital on Old Airport Road and had to undergo emergency brain surgery to remove a large clot caused by the accident. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, his condition worsened, and on December 9 he was declared brain-dead.

Inspired by her dedication to society, Sandhya’s family donated her organs. Her lungs, kidneys, liver, corneas, heart valves, skin and tissues were donated, potentially saving or improving many lives. Reflecting on their decision, her family members said, “Sandhya wanted to dedicate her life to society, serving the poor and improving access to healthcare in rural areas. Even in her death, she saved countless lives.

The second case involved 48-year-old Manjunath V, a blind man who became an organ donor after a tragic road accident. On December 15, he and his three blind friends were crossing Mysore Road near Kadamba Hotel in Kumblegod when they were hit by a six-wheeler truck. Two of his friends escaped with minor injuries and another suffered a broken shoulder while Manjunath suffered a severe head injury.

He was taken to Gleneagles BGS Hospital, where doctors fought to save him. Despite their efforts, he was declared brain dead on December 16. At this critical time, his family decided to donate his organs. His kidneys, liver, heart valves and corneas were successfully retrieved and distributed to recipients through the Lifetime Organ Donation Network.