GADAG: A special sports meet, ‘Gadag Transplant Games 2026’, organised recently in Gadag for the first time in the state for those who have undergone kidney transplantation and donors, was a big draw. As many as 60 recipients and donors from across the state participated in short distance races, race walk, shot put, discus throw, table tennis, carrom and other events, proving that they too are physically and mentally fit although they are under medication.
The event was organised to boost the self-confidence of organ recipients and donors, and motivate them to lead a healthy and active life.
Some recipients suffered organ failure and were under long-term treatment, while a few faced post-transplant challenges. Their journey from hospital beds to the stadium shows their grit and determination to rebuild their lives. The credit for organising the event goes to Dr Avinash Odugoudar and his team from the foundation. Former minister and Gadag MLA HK Patil helped the team set up hi-tech operation theatres in Hulkoti and to organise such a unique event in Gadag.
Dr Odugoudar, who witnessed ‘National Transplant Games’ in Delhi, organised the event in Gadag, which is third among the districts in the state in organ donation.
Feroz Khan Hospeti, a kidney recipient from Gadag, said, “It was a nice experience. My wife donated me a kidney in May and within three months I could participate in this event. I thank Dr Avinash, Dr Koliwad and Dr Kurahatti who gave me a new lease of life.”
Rajesh P, another kidney recipient from Davanagere, said, “When I got a call from Dr Avinash, I first asked him who are all participating? I was surprised when he said organ donors and recipients. I returned home a confident man.” Dr Pyarali Noorani, vice-president of the foundation, said, “Our team members VP Ranganna Odugoudar, Dr Deepak Kurahatti, Dr Pavan Koliwad, Dr Aravind K and all trustees were behind this successful event. Legislator HK Patil gave us all support.”
Dr Avinash, secretary of the foundation and organiser of the event, said, “Through the foundation, we are committed to supporting transplant recipients, promoting organ donation and making quality kidney care accessible to all.”
Anand Potnis of the foundation said, “We started the foundation to propagate organ donation and fund transplantation of poor patients. More such events will be held in the future.”
Event organisers
Transplant and Uro Genital Society of Gadag, HK Patil Pratisthan, Sankalpa Hospital, Jeevanasarthakathe, KH Patil Kidney Care and senior surgeons joined hands with Sankalpa Kidney Care Foundation to organise ‘Gadag Transplant Games’.