A 42-year-old Muslim Ayurvedic doctor from Kerala, Sajna S.A., who had been working in Bhopal for the past six months, passed away after suffering a severe brain haemorrhage (subarachnoid haemorrhage). She was admitted to a private hospital in Bhopal on May 15 after her condition became critical.
Despite intensive medical care, her condition worsened, and doctors later declared her brain-stem dead.
Family Agrees to Organ Donation After Counselling
Following the diagnosis, doctors and transplant coordinators counselled the family about the possibility of organ donation. After careful discussion, her family agreed to donate her organs, turning a moment of personal loss into an act of life-saving generosity.
Hospital authorities said the entire process followed the guidelines of the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), which regulates organ donation and transplantation procedures in the country.
What is Brain-Stem Death
Doctors explained that brain-stem death is a medically and legally recognised form of death. It refers to the irreversible loss of all brain functions, including those that control breathing and consciousness. Even if a ventilator keeps the heart beating, recovery is not possible.
Medical experts said such cases allow organ donation under strict protocols, as the organs remain viable for transplantation for a limited time.
Organs Transplanted to Save Lives
According to hospital officials, Sajna’s liver and one kidney were transplanted into patients admitted at the same hospital in Bhopal. Her second kidney was sent to another private hospital, where it was used for a patient in urgent need.
Dr S.K. Trivedi, Director of Bansal Hospital, said the family showed remarkable compassion during a difficult time.
“When asked if they had any preference regarding the recipient’s religion or identity, her husband said, ‘Give it to whoever needs it,’” he stated.
Doctors confirmed that all three organs helped save the lives of two patients.
Emotional Farewell With Full Honour
After the organ retrieval procedure, Sajna S.A.’s body was given a respectful farewell. Police personnel and hospital staff paid their tributes as part of the state’s recognition of organ donors.
Her body was later transported to Thiruvananthapuram for final rites in her hometown.
Hospital staff, local administration officials, and representatives from various organisations honoured the family for their decision, describing it as an example of humanity and compassion.
Debate and Public Response
The incident has drawn widespread attention on social media, where many users praised the family’s decision, calling it an example of “humanity beyond religion.”
Some users wrote that “humanity is the greatest religion,” while others highlighted the act as an example of interfaith harmony and selflessness.
Medical experts also said the case highlights the importance of organ donation awareness, especially in brain-stem death cases, where timely decisions can save multiple lives.
