CHANDIGARH-04.12.25-In a significant milestone for deceased organ donation in the region, PGIMER Chandigarh facilitated a Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) that resulted in the successful transplantation of both kidneys, offering renewed life to two patients suffering from end-stage renal failure. The donation was made possible through the extraordinary resolve of the family, who chose to transform an unexpected tragedy into a lifesaving opportunity for others.

The young male patient was brought to PGIMER on 21 November 2025 after sustaining critical injuries in a road traffic accident leading to a sudden cardiac arrest. Despite aggressive resuscitation and intensive care measures, he could not be revived. Following the cessation of cardiac activity and adherence to all national DCD protocols, the medical team declared death based on circulatory criteria.

Recognising the potential to save lives even in this moment of immense grief, the family consented to donate all organs. After assessment, both kidneys were deemed suitable for retrieval, and transplantation was carried out successfully within PGIMER.

Elaborating on their decision, a family member shared an emotional reflection, “We lost him so suddenly that our world collapsed in minutes. But knowing that he could still help others even after his heart stopped gave us strength. If two families can be saved from the pain we are going through, that is the greatest honour to his memory.”

Expressing profound appreciation, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER Chandigarh , stated, “This DCD donation is a powerful reminder that life-saving opportunities exist even in the most unexpected and tragic circumstances. The family’s courageous decision has not only saved two lives but has also strengthened the journey of DCD as a vital pathway for organ donation in India. We salute their compassion and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every such noble act is treated with the utmost respect, dignity, and professional excellence.”

Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Nodal Officer, ROTTO North , stated: “PGIMER has now facilitated 20 DCD donations, and this marks the third DCD case of the year. As one of the leading public sector institutions in the country actively performing DCD, we are committed to strengthening this pathway of organ donation with robust systems, ethical excellence, and coordinated multidisciplinary efforts.”
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"देहदान-महादान-जरूर करें"

The Department of Anatomy, PGIMER, Chandigarh has received the body of Mr. Amarjit Singh Chhabra S/O Mr. Santokh Singh Chabbra , aged 90 years R/O 3606, Sector-32D Chandigarh, India- 160022 on 4th Dec 2025. The body was gracefully donated by his son Mr. Bikramjit S Chabbra and other family members on 4th Dec 2025. The Department is grateful to the family members and admires them for this noble gesture.