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The event, which combined both International Women’s Day and World Kidney Day, served as a tribute to the late Usha Gowri, whose parents decided to keep her legacy alive through the selfless decision to donate her organs. The event was graced by Dinesh Gundu Rao, Hon. Health Minister of Karnataka, Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Bengaluru South, and Dr. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman – Manipal Hospitals.
Usha, a promising medical student, lost her life on January 26, 1998, in a tragic accident. Despite the profound grief, her family chose to donate her kidney. Their gesture marked the inception of the cadaver kidney transplantation at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road. Thence, Usha is known as the first cadaver kidney donor in Karnataka under the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Act.
Dinesh Gundu Rao said, “A single organ donor has the potential to save eight lives and improve the health of more than 75 others. The introduction of robotic-assisted surgeries transformed transplant procedures, allowing surgeons to operate with unprecedented precision and accuracy. Usha’s story is a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her selfless act of organ donation exemplifies the spirit of humanity and underscores the importance of organ donation in saving lives.”
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While appreciating Usha’s parents selfless act, Tejasvi Surya also spoke on why Insurance companies need to include robotic-assisted surgeries under cashless surgical treatment. He said, “Innovative healthcare technology gets upgraded with minimum errors ensuring minimal invasive surgeries. Also, they have a competitive edge over surgeries than conventional methods. Robotics surgeries come at a steep cost and if insurers meet the demands of the healthcare industries to cover it under cashless payments in health plans, it will provide an impetus to financial coverage. This is the need of the hour—proving beneficial for patients when they need advanced healthcare treatment/interventions.”
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In recognition of Usha’s courage and generosity, Dr. Sudarshan Ballal declared the initiation of a monthly subsidized kidney transplant surgery program named ‘Usha’s Day.’ He said, ” The integration of robotic technology has elevated the standard of care, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction. With this innovation and excellence, Manipal Hospitals is steadfast to lead the way in advancing transplant surgeries. Usha’s remarkable legacy underscores the profound impact of organ donation and highlights the transformative power of empathy and generosity. Through this event, we encourage others to pledge their organs, fostering a culture of compassion and altruism.”