PGIMER, Chandigarh- In an inspiring act of humanity, 18-year-old Arshdeep, son of an Indian Army soldier, has given the gift of life to five individuals through organ donation after being declared brain stem dead at Command Hospital, Western Command (CHWC), Chandimandir. His noble gesture stands as a beacon of hope, transforming tragedy into a second chance for those in need.
Arshdeep, a resident of Ropar, was involved in a fatal road traffic accident on February 8, 2025, in what appeared to be a case of road rage. A tempo collided with his bike following an altercation, causing severe head and chest injuries. He was immediately taken to a private hospital in Ropar before being shifted to Command Hospital, Western Command, Chandimandir, for advanced medical care. For eight days, intensivists and neurosurgeons at CHWC fought tirelessly to save him. He underwent multiple surgeries, but his condition deteriorated, and he slipped into a coma. On February 15, doctors declared him brain stem dead, a heart-breaking moment for his family.
Despite their immense sorrow, Arshdeeps father, a dedicated soldier, made a courageous decisionto donate his son's organs and save others. With the efforts of the transplant coordination team at CHWC, the consent for organ donation was obtained, paving the way for a life-saving mission. Arshdeeps selflessness led to the transplantation of multiple organs, breathing new life into five individuals. His kidney and pancreas were sent to PGIMER, Chandigarh, for a Simultaneous Kidney-Pancreas (STK) transplant, while his liver and one kidney were allocated to Army Hospital Research and Referral (AHRR), New Delhi, giving two patients a fresh start. Additionally, his corneas were preserved in the Eye Bank of CHWC, ensuring that two visually impaired individuals will regain their sight.
Commending the family "s courage, Maj Gen Matthews Jacob, VSM, Commandant, Command Hospital, Chandimandir stated, "The nobility of organ donation shines brightest in moments of deepest grief. Arshdeeps legacy will live on through the five lives he has saved. His fathers decision is an example of unparalleled humanity and patriotism."
Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Vipin Koushal, Nodal Officer, ROTTO PGIMER, emphasized the growing need for organ donation, saying, "Every year, thousands of patients die waiting for an organ. This young donor has set an example for the entire nation. We urge society to embrace this noble cause and pledge for organ donation."
Overwhelmed with emotions, Arshdeeps father shared, "My son was full of life and always helped others. Though he is no longer with us, his heart still beats somewhere, his eyes will see the world, and his soul will live on in those he saved. This was his destinyto be a hero even in death."
Arshdeep's story highlights the critical need for organ donation awareness. With thousands of people awaiting transplants across India, his selfless act underlines the power of a single decision to transform multiple lives. PGIMER Chandigarh, in collaboration with ROTTO North, continues to advocate for organ donation and urges more people to pledge for this life-saving cause. Let us honor Arshdeeps memory by spreading the message: "Be a donor, be a life-giver."