CYCLISTS UNITE IN THANE TO CREATE AWARENESS FOR ORGAN DONATION

Nearly 200 cyclists came together in Thane city to join a cyclothon organized by MOHAN Foundation and Wheels and Barrels cycling club. The goal of this ride was to create public awareness about the importance of Organ Donation and give a new life to people.

On 8^th December 2025, the city of Thane observed a vibrant display of community spirit and awareness with a successful organisation of an Organ Donation cyclothon called ‘Pedal For Life.’

The event, aimed at raising awareness about the critical need for organ donation in India, saw enthusiastic participation from cyclists of all ages, united by a common goal: saving lives. Children, moms and elderly, rode a bike for the social cause and pledged their support to MOHAN Foundation.

The event opened with Bib distribution, warm-up exercise and pre-ride briefing. The cyclothon, flagged off amidst cheers and music, covered a designated route of 5 kms through the heart of Thane. Participants, adorned with neon green jerseys and banners promoting organ donation, cycled together, creating a wave of awareness and inspiring onlookers.

The event was a collaborative effort, with participation from MOHAN Foundation, Wheels and Barrels cycling club, hospitals which provided ambulance services, Police personal for road safety and local area authorities for volunteering work. Many cyclists representing different cycling groups from across the city came in large numbers to support this cause. Medical professionals were present to provide information about organ donation, dispel myths, and answer queries from the public.

Jaya Jairam, Project Director at MOHAN Foundation say’s “Organ donation is a powerful and beautiful act of kindness. Every year, over 500,000 Indians suffer from end-stage organ failure, and many tragically lose their lives waiting for a transplant. Meanwhile, the organs we no longer need after death are either burned or buried-wasted-when they could instead save up to 8 lives. Let’s remember the ABCD of organ donation: A – Anyone can donate organs and eyes, regardless of age. B – Brain-dead donors can save up to 8 lives by donating vital organs like the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, intestines, and even hands. C – Conversations with your family about your wish to donate are crucial because, after death, it becomes a family decision. D – Donate organs to become a hero and create a legacy that lives forever.”

Shalini Ajay Rathore, Cyclist and Organ donor who co-organised the event say’s “Very few people know about organ donation and which is why we thought to take up this and we got in touch with MOHAN Foundation and organised this Cyclothon in Thane. As Cycling is all about health and fitness and organ donation is giving second life what better we could have done for the Community.”

Snapshot of the Organ Donation Cyclothon:

Massive Public Participation: The event saw an overwhelming response from the community, with hundreds of cyclists participating in the morning ride.

Awareness Creation: The cyclothon served as a powerful platform to educate the public about the importance of organ donation and dispel common misconceptions.

Community Engagement: The event brought together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Recognition: The organisers recognised the efforts of a few cyclists for their contribution in the field of cycling with a personalised memento. While all other riders received medals and certificates for their active participation.

Breakfast: The event concluded with riders bonding over breakfast and leaving the venue with happy memories.

Alarming Statistics:

India lags behind other nations in organ donation. Lakhs of lives can be saved if organ donation in India picks up pace. According to statistics, every year in the country nearly 5 lakh people die because of non-availability of organs. This is due to a number of factors such as low organ donation rate, shortage of organs, inadequate renal services, and increasing demand for donors. Statistics suggest, around 2 lakh people die of liver disease, 50,000 people die of heart disease, 1,50,000 people await kidney transplant but only 5000 get one, and approximately 1 million individuals suffer from corneal blindness and await transplant.

The Impact:

The cyclothon not only raised awareness about organ donation but also encouraged individuals to register as organ donors. Around fifty people registered as donors on the spot and pledged to donate their organs while several others are considering to volunteer. The event served as a powerful reminder that every organ donated can offer a second chance at life to someone in need.

Looking Ahead:

The success of this cyclothon sets a positive precedent for future initiatives aimed at promoting organ donation. Similar events can be organized in other parts of the city and beyond, encouraging greater public awareness and participation.

Reach out to MOHAN Foundation for collaboration, Toll free number 1800 103 7100.

To summarise, the organ donation cyclothon in Thane was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of community engagement in raising awareness about a critical healthcare issue. By cycling for life, participants not only contributed to a noble cause but also inspired others to join the movement and make a difference.