Article published in the November 17, 2023 edition of DesiTalk
In the heart of the South Asian community, Diwali, the Festival of Lights, holds a special place. It’s a time of celebration and the triumph of light over darkness. But for Ravi Panicker, a liver transplant recipient, Diwali has taken on a deeper meaning, transcending its traditional significance. Ravi’s story is a testament to the incredible impact of organ donation, and how it embodies the spirit of Diwali.
Ravi led a seemingly ordinary life and reveled in the simple joys of his everyday routine. It was in the year 2000 that the course of his life took an unexpected turn. The results of a routine physical unveiled a series of health issues and Ravi faced the daunting diagnosis of Hepatitis C. Then, in 2015, he was treated for bacterial meningitis and underwent brain surgery. In July 2019, Ravi was diagnosed with liver cancer and was placed on the transplant list. Despite receiving such a diagnosis, Ravi’s hope remained resolute.
In November 2020, Ravi received a life-altering call. On the other end of the line was the news that a match had been found for him, a selfless gift from a 14-year-old girl named Aubrey. This young hero’s family, in the most tragic of circumstances, made the decision to give the gift of life. Their generosity allowed seven individuals, including Ravi, a second chance at life. Aubrey, an organ donor hero, became a symbol of the light that shines even in the darkest of times, a beacon of hope that Ravi would carry with him forever.
Ravi’s journey is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there’s a potential for miracles, and that the gift of organ donation can illuminate lives in a way that mirrors the radiant glow of Diwali.
To learn more about how you can become an organ donor hero, please visit LiveOnNY.org.
