Aari donated seven of his organs after his death, meaning two other kids were able to get essential transplants
The mother of Aari Patel, a three-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in 2016 in an accident at home, is urging people to consider organ donation. Aari went on to donate seven of his organs which saved the lives of others including two children.
The NHS Blood and Transplant, ‘Hope Takes Flight’ campaign focuses on Aari’s parents’ decision to donate their son’s organs. Aari’s dad Jay Patel, aged 50, from Croydon, South London shared that the decision brought them comfort in a difficult time. Mum Sina, 51, described the toddler as ‘cheeky’ and ‘very loved’.
There is currently a record number of people waiting for an organ transplant. More than 8,000 people across the UK are on the waiting list for a transplant.
Sina said: “Nine years on we miss Aari just as much if not more. Every passing year it feels like we are further away from him, but we remain strong in the belief the decision to donate Aari’s organs was the right decision.”
Sina added that she hopes Aari’s recipients are able to live a “long and fulfilling life with their family and friends.” She highlighted how proud they are of Aari, and also stressed the importance of this campaign.
“It’s upsetting and disheartening that so many more people are waiting for a transplant,” she said, “especially when everyone of us has the chance to change that by starting the conversation about organ donation and confirming their decision on the Organ Donor Register.”
She added: “Hope Takes Flight captures the hope and optimism at the heart of organ donation, celebrating the passing on of the gift of life. We hope the video will inspire others to act and empower us all to make a meaningful impact.
“We never know what is round the corner, our lives can change in a split second. By confirming your decision on the Organ Donor Register and informing your family of your decision it will give them comfort and strength they are making the right decision during one of the hardest times.
“We hope this video inspires others to see how one decision can transform countless lives through the gift of organ donation. Even in our sadness, we hold on to the memory of Aari and strive to share the positive legacy he left behind.”
The campaign’s launch video features Aari along with many others who are experiencing the long-awaited call for a transplant, to the actual moment when the patient receives that news.
Every story is symbolically connected to a pink and white paper plane, which has been designed by lung transplant recipient and origami artist Joe Russel, reflecting the hopeful journey that organ donation brings to families.
Anthony Clarkson, Director of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “At this time of giving and thinking of others, please give hope to the thousands of people, including hundreds of children, waiting for a lifesaving phone call this Christmas.
“Their lives can only be saved by the ultimate act of humanity and kindness – organ donation. Up to nine lives can be saved when sadly a life is lost.
“Register your decision to be an organ donor and tell your family. Share the Hope Takes Flight videos and inspire others to become lifesavers.”
To confirm your support for organ donation on the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk, call 0300 123 23 23 or use the NHS app. And please inform your family about your decision.
