The legacy of late Tarneit resident and mother Sarika Gupta is living on through her heart, liver and kidneys and her family want others to know the importance of organ donation.
Ms Gupta was by all accounts perfectly healthy and excited when she, husband Kedarnath and their two sons departed Melbourne on 17 October to celebrate Diwali with their families in India.
While in Pune, the 46-year-old suffered a sudden brain haemorrhage and severe lung infection after reporting that she felt unwell.
She was formally declared brain dead on 2 November.
In the midst of his shock, Sarika’s husband recalled a wish of hers.
“A few times we were just sitting and discussing things and she said just in case something happens to me, I would love to have my organs donated,” Mr Gupta said.
“After Covid she had mentioned it three or four times.“
After speaking with their two sons about Sarika’s wishes, the family agreed to do what they could to fulfil her final wish.
With the support of local authorities, and the Australian Embassy, her organs were donated saving the lives of four strangers.
Sharika’s heart was transported to Mumbai, while her liver and kidneys helped save lives in Pune.
“Last we heard they all were doing well and they all were recovering well after receiving the organs,” Mr Gupta said.
“She was always one of those people who believed in giving to others, and during the last stage of her life that is what she has done.”
Her generosity has also provided something less tangible but perhaps equally important.
“It gives me a bit of comfort that her heart is still pumping somewhere…because of her, those four people are still alive,” Mr Gupta said.
The only thing the Gupta family wants the community to know is that donated organs can keep others alive.
“Giving is always good– it doesn’t matter what you are giving,” Mr Gupta said.
“In today’s selfish world it is very hard when you want to give someone something for nothing in return.”
