NDTV.com: Mumbai Church issues plea for organ donations

NDTV.com: Mumbai Church issues plea for organ donations

Mumbai Church issues plea for organ donations.

Dharmesh Thakkar
Monday, February 4, 2008 (Mumbai)
A church in suburban Mumbai has decided to include in its Sunday mass a message to its parish to donate organs.

It's a quick response from the church in reaction to the kidney scam that has grabbed headlines in recent times.

The church in the western suburbs of Mumbai has been urging parish members to pledge their organs for cadaver donations at its Sunday mass.

This includes announcements on the importance of donating organs, inviting doctors to clear myths and misconceptions.

''Jesus gave his life so that others could live, so why not we follow him and donate our organs so others get a life; that is what Christianity or other religions teach,'' said Fr Leslie Almeida, St Francis Xavier Church.

The appeal has evoked enthusiastic responses with people instantly signing up to pledge their organs.

''I was not aware of this but after coming here I realised that my body can be used. If some part of my body can be used to help somebody alive,'' said Angelina Nimma, Parish Member.

Doctors say that the number of patients with organ failure is constantly growing and the lack of adequate number of donors continues, forcing transplant surgeons to explore new avenues for donors.

''There are more than 900 recipients for kidney transplant, 55 need liver and 10 for heart but the donors are simply not available,'' said Dr Vatsala Trivedi, Chairperson, National Deceased Donor Transplantation Network.

Awareness that can go a long way in stopping illegal human organ trade and give hope for those in need of transplants.