The Thai Red Cross Society has paid tribute to an emergency medicine doctor in Chachoengsao whose family donated her organs after she fell ill while treating patients. Dr Ketjutha Makarod, known by the Thai nickname Mor Ju, was an emergency medicine specialist at Sanam Chai Khet Hospital, the community hospital serving Sanam Chai Khet district. She fell suddenly ill several days ago while she was on duty seeing patients, and her condition deteriorated and became critical. Her family decided to donate her organs.
The Red Cross said they showed strength in making the decision without hesitation, during what it called the most difficult hours they had faced, in the hope of passing on a new life to patients still waiting. Her kidneys, eyes, heart valves, skin and bone have now reached several patients on the waiting list, the organisation said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. Her death has brought deep sorrow, the Red Cross said, but has also allowed others to keep going. Those who received her donations will always remember that someone gave them the breath they now have.
Mor Ju will be remembered not only as a beloved daughter, a dear friend and a devoted doctor, the organisation added, but as someone who gave new life. It extended its condolences to her family and friends. The Red Cross did not give her age, the cause of her illness or the date of her death. Anyone in Thailand can register an intention to donate their eyes and organs at eyeorgandonate.redcross.or.th, or through the Red Cross eye and organ donation app.