India is struggling to land on its feet once again as the second wave of Corona has battered the nation. In such a situation, many have come forward individually to lend a hand in the mortal combat. But at the same time, millions refrain from doing even a little, fearing the loss of lives and fortune.
Of all the treatments that have been approved for COVID-19, plasma donation is one of the most effective so far. Breaking all forms of misconceptions, fear, and hesitation around the process, Ajay Munot from Pune has donated his plasma 14 times after recovering from his first and only Corona attack last year.
Ajay has now made his entry into the India Book of Records, 2022 for “Maximum plasma donation by an individual“.
The 50-year-old works as a strategic consultant and has also authored a book by the title – How To Win Election. He lives in a joint family with 11 members and last June he and his wife contracted with COVID 19. At that time, he observed there was a widespread demand for plasma with desperate families pleading for plasma from donors through social media. That’s when he decided to step in.
“As I had mild symptoms, I got myself admitted in a COVID-19 Care Centre. After recovery, I realized the need for plasma donors. Then just after 28 days of recovery, I donated my first plasma as it was an emergency and a patient’s family was searching for a plasma donor,” Munot told LifeBeyondNumbers.
He claims his mother to be the inspiration behind his urge to donate plasma. Today, she is no more but she has left behind her legacy that continues to aid people.
“My mother had a very rare blood group – O Negative. So, she was often called by hospitals, and many a time by the army to donate her blood. So, since being a child I realized the importance of donating blood, and now plasma,” the record-holding donor shared.
All his plasma donations have been done at Sahyadri Hospital, Kothrud. He wishes people to derive inspiration from his deed and come forward to donate their plasma.
“Though I have donated plasma for 14 days, I have never felt weak or uneasy. People have false notions that blood is taken out during plasma donation. Plasma is separated from the blood. Plasma contains antibodies. Plasma donation is not blood donation. One does not feel weak or fall ill after donating plasma,” he said.
Before every donation, Munot goes under an antibody test. They take about 500 ml of plasma during each donation which helps three people to recover from COVID. He has made these donations within a gap of as little as 15 days and he says that it is enough to replenish the plasma and also antibodies.
“Even after nine months, I have adequate stock of antibodies in my blood and I am ready to donate for the 15th time as well. I will continue to donate till I can,” Ajay said.
On being asked about his plans of vaccination, Ajay said, ”If I take the vaccine I will not be able to donate the plasma. So, I don’t plan to get vaccinated until I got antibodies in me. Once it’s not there, I may think of it”.
Such a thoughtful soul! God bless him.