PGI organ donation camp at Chandigarh Carnival draws attention

The message of hope, compassion and second chances resonated strongly at this year’s Chandigarh Carnival as the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO), PGIMER, drew an overwhelming response to its three-day Organ Donation Awareness and Pledge Camp held from November 14 to 16. A total of 124 visitors pledged to donate their organs, while many more stopped by the stall to seek detailed information, ask questions and understand how they could make a lasting impact.

People from Chandigarh, neighbouring states and even distant cities visited the ROTTO counter, each carrying a personal reason, memory or motivation.

Among the many who pledged, several shared their heartfelt stories. Vishal Gupta from Delhi said, “I have seen the helplessness of families waiting endlessly. If my organs can help someone else breathe easier, that is the service I want to leave behind.”

Monika Rai from Chandigarh recalled how she had been searching for clear answers: “I had questions for years, and no platform felt approachable. Today, I felt reassured and proud to finally pledge.” Indu from Una spoke of the grief of losing a relative who waited three years for a kidney. “If I can prevent that kind of pain for another family, it is worth everything,” she said.

Neharika from Chandigarh saw the pledge as a way of expressing gratitude for life itself, while Ravi from Panchkula reflected, “We plan so much for our lives, but this pledge is planning for someone else’s life.” Chirag from Chandigarh added, “I always wondered whether ordinary people could make an extraordinary difference. Today, I realised we can.”

The camp also witnessed a steady stream of visitors, seeking clarity on practical aspects of organ donation.