Bengaluru, India – December 26, 2023 – A tragic incident at a construction site in Bangalore claimed the life of 18-year-old Tharun Balachandra from Puradamata, Dakshina Kannada district. Employed as an assistant at a local restaurant and assisting at the construction site, Tharun suffered a severe head injury, following a fall.
Tharun was rushed to a local nursing home and then brought to Gleneagles Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru. Tharun ‘s parents, Balachandra, and Latha, faced a heartbreaking situation as the medical team at Gleneagles Hospital conducted a surgery to save him. Unfortunately, Tharun was brought in with irreversible brain death, and the medical efforts were unsuccessful.
In an act of generosity, the grieving parents consented to organ donation, contributing 2 kidneys, 1 liver, 2 eyes, and a heart. Kidneys were Transplanted to 39-year-old male and 33-year-old male. Liver to 35-year male and heart to 49-year-old male.
“Our thoughts are with the Balachandra family during this difficult time. Tharun ‘s tragic incident highlights life’s fragility. The family’s courageous decision to donate his organs is an act of profound compassion, embodying the enduring spirit of humanity even amid tragedy. We stand with them in solidarity,” stated Ms Sarala Anantharaj, Chief Grief Counselor and Senior Transplant Co-ordinator.
Tharun, seeking employment in Bangalore, worked as an attender at a restaurant and contributed to the construction site. The unfortunate accident occurred while descending an under-construction staircase without a railing, resulting in a fall from the second floor.
The Balachandra family’s choice to donate organs highlights the critical need for organ donation in our community. Ms Sarala emphasized, “It’s crucial to acknowledge the immense demand for organ transplants. The Balachandra family’s selfless act serves as a poignant example, illustrating how one family’s decision can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.”
The deceased’s father, a farmer, and mother, a housewife, expressed their grief over the loss of their eldest son, leaving behind a younger sister.
“Tharun was our pillar of strength. His untimely departure has left a void that can never be filled. We chose organ donation to ensure a part of him lives on and brings hope to others in need,” shared Mr. Balachandra, Tharun ‘s father.
Tharun Balachandra’s legacy now echoes through the lives he has touched with his final act of kindness.
