Organ Transplantation is not just another surgery. Behind every story of transplantation is the story of either sudden tragedy or supreme sacrifice. There is almost holiness about the event. The emotional sensitivity of the cadaver donor family can sometimes be extremely difficult to either comprehend or handle. It is of utmost importance for us doctors to ensure that the relatives of the patient are treated with sympathy, respect and extra care after they have consented for organ donation. The role of the transplant coordinator does not stop with asking for the consent for organ donation. The transplant coordinator has to make sure that the relatives do not get caught in the usual hospital delays and the body is handed over as quickly as possible after the process of donation. The relatives should also be sent a letter of appreciation and thanks from the management or administration of the hospital after the event.

The Foundation office staff receives either letters of complaint from relatives or hears about the shoddy treatment they have received from the hospital authorities when they are interviewed about the organ donation event. This is very worrying and all hospitals undertaking cadaver transplants program should examine their programs and lay out protocols for the transplant coordinators to follow. If we do not streamline our efforts, these tragic situations can get blown out of proportion and leave a lot of bitterness behind.