Transplant Centers and Hospitals from Throughout the U.S. Came Together to Share Best Practices to Save More Lives
(Red Bank, NJ) – On May 31, 2024, NJ Sharing Network hosted its first-ever Transplant Growth Collaboration meeting, bringing together C-suite and senior transplant program and hospital leaders from across the nation. The event, held at the Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank, NJ, was a resounding success, providing a platform for the exchange of innovative practices aimed at increasing the rate of successful transplantations and saving more lives.
Endorsed by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) and hosted by NJ Sharing Network, the collaboration included representatives from all six New Jersey transplant centers and eight of New York’s transplant centers. The event facilitated critical discussions aimed at overcoming challenges and identifying effective practices to increase deceased donor organ transplants.
“We believe this event and future Transplant Growth Collaborations have the potential to revolutionize the way transplants are conducted,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, MS, President and CEO, NJ Sharing Network. “We took pride in hosting this event in New Jersey as we have experienced five consecutive years of organ donation growth thanks to our healthcare partners and the generosity of those in the Garden State who say ‘YES’ to giving the gift of life. This collaboration is a significant step towards driving positive change and saving more lives through collective action and innovation.”
The event featured presentations and discussions on successful transplant programs, including Hackensack University Medical Center’s nationally leading kidney transplant program, known for its exceptional growth and patient outcomes. Attendees gained insights into effective strategies and best practices that have contributed to significant growth and improved patient outcomes, while also addressing barriers to transplant program growth and exploring potential solutions.
In 2023, the OPTN created the Expeditious Task Force to develop pathways to increase the number of successful transplants and improve organ allocation efficiency. The Task Force has set a bold aim of increasing the number of deceased donor transplants from 39,680 in 2023 to 60,000 in 2026. Dianne LaPointe Rudow, ANP-BC, DNP, FAAN, OPTN Board President, emphasized that achieving this goal requires the concerted efforts of transplant programs nationwide. According to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), there are over 100,000 Americans - nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey - waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Just one organ and tissue donor can save 8 lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. The opportunity to give the gift of life is extremely rare - not everyone who registers as a donor is able to donate after they pass away. In fact, only 3 in 1,000 people pass in a way that allows for deceased organ donation. This underscores the pressing need for more registered donors. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION 1 – (left-to-right) Michael Goldstein, MD, Director of Abdominal Transplant, Hackensack University Medical Center; Carolyn M. Welsh, MS, President and CEO, NJ Sharing Network; and J. Kevin Cmunt, OPTN Expeditious Task Force. (Photo Credit – courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(New Providence, NJ) – National Minority Donor Awareness Month, celebrated annually in August, honors the generosity of multicultural organ and tissue donors and their families. It also highlights the critical need for diverse communities to register as organ and tissue donors. NJ Sharing Network (NJSN), the federally designated non-profit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue, is leading a variety of community awareness activities during this important month. NJSN is sharing the inspirational stories of local organ and tissue donor heroes from multicultural communities to raise awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are waiting for a lifesaving transplant, with 67% being people of color. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 people.
“Our dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and community partners are unstoppable in their efforts to educate and dispel myths about organ and tissue donation in our diverse communities throughout New Jersey. We proudly celebrate and honor our donor heroes and their families who say ‘YES’ to saving and enhancing the lives of countless others, giving them more time together, more memories to create and more moments to cherish with loved ones,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network.
E. Denise Peoples, Senior Manager of Community Services, NJ Sharing Network, is a double-lung transplant recipient and Newark resident who promotes NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission in local schools, faith-based organizations, and community associations. “Within our communities of color, we have all experienced how health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and kidney failure have impacted those around us – our mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, friends, and neighbors. That is why there is a greater need than ever for transplants among our ethnic minorities,” said Peoples.
During National Minority Donor Awareness Month, NJ Sharing Network’s website (www.NJSharingNetwork.org) and social media platforms will be updated with information on ways to participate in local activities and events. These include the Live Healthy & Move free community events on August 10 in Vera Ames Community Park in Paterson, and on August 24 in Vailsburg Park in Newark. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
Forever in Our Hearts – Edward Damirr Ross of Camden, NJ
Edward Damirr Ross, 29, known affectionately as Damirr, had an effervescent energy, charisma, and charm that made others want to be around him.
You could feel his energy when he walked into a room,” said Dana Drummond, his mother. “He didn’t have to say a word – his radiant smile was always memorable. We could always count on him to listen and give the best advice when we needed it most.”
From his earlier days, Damirr had a thirst for knowledge and a love for learning. He excelled academically, earning honors upon graduating from Lenape High School in Medford. “He was an avid reader and was equally dedicated to his physical health and loved to work out,” said Dana.
In recent years, Damirr’s greatest joy was spending time with his two young children, Jace and Jouri.
Tragically, on November 21, 2023, Damirr’s life was cut short unexpectedly. Yet, even in death, his legacy of giving continued through the gift of organ donation. His family made the generous decision to donate his heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas, to save the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds in New Jersey, New York, Boston, Florida, and California.
“During that difficult time in the hospital, we knew it was the right thing to do. Damirr would be so proud that he continues to be a star as his legacy lives on,” said Dana.
Dana is also thankful for the care they received from the Cooper University Medical Center and NJ Sharing Network teams.
“They were sincere and compassionate every step of the way. We appreciate everything they did for us. It blew my mind when we learned that less than one percent of people are able to be organ donors. It made us realize just how special Damirr’s gifts would be,” said Dana.
Lars-Kristofer N. Peterson, MD, Emergency Medicine, Cooper University, expressed his gratitude to Dana and all of Damirr’s family members.
“Their generosity and courage in participating in organ donation are testaments to their resiliency and the bright light that Damirr brought to the world. His impact will continue through them and the gifts he made to the organ recipients,” said Dr. Peterson.
A Dayton/South Brunswick Family Touched by Both Donation and Transplantation
Priya Kannusamy of Dayton/South Brunswick, NJ, is one of NJ Sharing Network’s passionate volunteers who proudly shares her remarkable life journey with the hope of registering people as organ and tissue donors. Her story is one filled with resilience and compassion marked by the impact of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. As both the mother of a deceased daughter who became a tissue donor and a living liver donor to her husband, Priya’s story highlights the transformative power of generosity and the mission of NJ Sharing Network.
Priya’s first experience with donation occurred in 2019 when her daughter, Swathi Prabhakar, 19, passed away. Swathi was an extraordinary young girl who faced the challenges of an extremely rare genetic metabolic disorder. Despite the limitations imposed by her condition, she embraced life with joy and touched the hearts of all who knew her.
“Swathi found delight in princess stories, songs, and movies, and her infectious smile was her trademark,” said Priya. “When she passed away, our focus was on the life she lived and what she could pass on to others. I feel extremely grateful that her cornea and brain tissue donations were a way for her to pay it forward. It brings solace to us every day knowing that Swathi’s legacy lives on through the gift of sight for others. Her brain tissue donation is also helping move science forward through important research.”
While grieving the loss of Swathi, Priya’s husband, Venu Prabhakar, began to face critical health concerns related to his chronic liver disease. He was hospitalized several times and put on the liver transplant waiting list. In 2022, Priya stepped up to be living liver donor for a transplant surgery that saved Venu’s life.
“I did not want to see my husband suffer, and I was willing to do anything in my power to make him better,” said Priya.
Today, Priya and Venu are both living life to its fullest. They work, travel, play pickleball, take daily walks together, and spend quality time with their son, Surya Prabhakar.
A Caring Spirit Lives On – Julian Rosado of Bayonne
Julian Rosado, 31, of Bayonne always brought smiles to the faces of his family, friends, and co-workers. He had a unique ability to make others feel comfortable – especially during difficult times when they needed support.
“He was like a ray of sunshine,” said Mary Jane Rosado, Julian’s mother. “He was quirky and funny, and always had a positive spirit and energy. He especially loved his daughters, Julianna and Cheyenne.”
As a young boy, Julian was diagnosed with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and ADHD. Despite struggling in school and sports activities, Julian worked hard to earn a degree and became a successful, OSHA-certified plumber. In March 2021, Julian married his sweetheart, Nicole Marie Vallese. The couple looked forward to a bright future together and planned to buy a new home. Just three months later, an unthinkable tragedy occurred when Julian passed away following an accidental fall.
“My husband and I continually prayed for a miracle,” said Mary Jane. “We feel that our prayers were answered. It was not how we expected, but it was God’s way.”
While the family continues to miss Julian, they are proud that his caring legacy lives on as an organ donor. Julian’s gifts saved the lives of three people.
“Now he is like a sunflower, who spreads seeds so more flowers can grow. It comforts me to know that my son, my sunshine, gave others the gift of life,” said Mary Jane.
PHOTO CAPTIONS
Edward Damirr Ross with his son, Jace (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
Priya Kannusamy with her husband, Venu Prabhakar, her daughter, Swathi Prabhakar, and her son, Surya Prabhakar (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
Julian Rosado (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(Elizabeth, NJ) – The Sharing Network Foundation recently made a generous contribution of more than 100 copies of the children’s book, A Gift of Life: A Story About Organ and Tissue Donation, to support the County of Union’s “Inclusive Book Program.”
As part of Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded’s 2024 “Growing Together in Union County” initiatives, the “Inclusive Book Program” provides Union County schools with a diverse selection of books that celebrate different cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. By offering a range of inclusive literature, the program aims to promote empathy, understanding, and acceptance among students, as well as cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment within local school communities.
“We thank the Sharing Network Foundation and all of our fantastic partners for helping us distribute the first wave of the massive collection of inclusive books that the County has purchased for our public elementary school libraries,” said Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Our Board of County Commissioners continues to seek and support programs, services, and initiatives that amplify every voice, ensuring that inclusivity and understanding thrive across Union County. We believe that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the books they read.”A Gift of Life: A Story of Organ and Tissue Donation, is a touching children’s picture book written by author Rachelle Burk and funded by the Sharing Network Foundation. This special book follows a young boy after the loss of his father and his legacy as a hero through organ and tissue donation. Beautifully illustrated by Benjamin Hummel, a two-time liver transplant recipient, it’s a story of hope, love, and the incredible impact one can make by giving the gift of life. The book is available for purchase on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1C3TJJ6.
PHOTO CAPTION – (left-to-right) Union County Commissioner Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon; Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation; Joe Leo, Owner of Here’s the Story Bookstore in Union, NJ; Union County Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded; and Daryl Palmieri, Union County Interim Executive County Superintendent helped assist with the distribution of inclusive books for public elementary school libraries in Union County. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of the County of Union)
Explore the intersection of health equity and organ and tissue donation. Gain insights into how advocacy, policy, and community engagement can impact the outcomes of healthcare and organ donation.
Our Community Services team will share an overview of NJ Sharing Network's public education efforts in our diverse communities.
6 Steps To Survive The Holiday Season After Loss By Donna Mebane
For years, I made my children listen to Bing Crosby as we decorated the Christmas tree. One day, I reasoned, I would be gone and I imagined them downloading 'ole Bing and carrying on the tradition with their own children. When they got to the song, "Think of Me" they'd pause, shed a little tear, think of all the good times we had, and be sorry they complained incessantly about it so many years before.
Three years ago, my youngest child, Emma, died. She was 19 years old. I no longer put up a Christmas tree. Perhaps someday I will again. But I know I will never, ever again listen to Bing Crosby.
I don't presume that what I have done to get through three sets of holidays is right for others. Everyone's grief is different, and so is their path to survival. My mother died on New Year's Day. My sister is a nurse and plans to work. My dad wants to do everything exactly as it had been done when she was alive. My brother, the introvert, plans to stay home, alone with his own thoughts. Each person knows what he/she can handle and to the extent possible needs to create the space in which to handle it.
The human being has an amazing capacity to keep standing... an amazing will to keep living. "I'd never survive the loss of one of my children," I'd say knowingly whenever I'd hear about such a horror. "I'd simply curl up in a ball and die." But I didn't. I still wonder sometimes how it's possible that I am still breathing. But breathe I do. Every day, countless times a day. The holidays are still the worst of times, perhaps because at one time they were the best of times. These things have helped me. I hope they help you whether you are grieving the loss of a parent, a friend, a beloved pet or heaven help you, a child.
1. Don't ask too much of yourself. You are not yourself. In some ways you will never be again. If you had lost a limb, you would not expect to go on as you had before. The first year, I didn't cook Thanksgiving dinner or shop for Christmas presents. I had other children, sure. But I didn't have Emma and that defined me. I gave IOU's for a family vacation to the other kids. It was easy and they were happy. If I had young children, I would have asked friends and family to shop for me. They would have. For that first year anyhow, they understood. Ask for help. You'll get it. People want to help. They can't bring your loved one back, but they'll do anything else they can. They'll be thankful they could do something meaningful for you.
2. Reshape traditions. We used to share what we were most thankful for over dessert at Thanksgiving. We used to eat at the dining room table for special occasions. We used to put up a Christmas tree and open presents in the same spot in our living room. We hung stockings on our coat rack because Santa was ridiculously generous with stocking stuffers and they would fall off the mantle. We used to buy chocolate-covered strawberries for Valentines. They were Emma's favorites. We stopped doing those things. But over time, we started doing other things. We go to Christmas brunch. We have selected new seats for present opening in the family room. We don't hang stockings, we don't put up a tree, we don't use the dining room. But we have created new traditions that make sense for the reshaped family we have become. We have begun to look forward to these traditions.
3. Find ways to include the ones you have lost. This Christmas, the first without my mother, I will make her favorite Christmas cookie which will forever now be dubbed Bobbie's pecan bars. Last Christmas, I bought presents for Emma's dad and siblings that were inspired by her -- we see her in the shape of a star and a cardinal and, once you start to look, you see them everywhere. I wrote little notes in her voice. They were the hit of the holidays and all are proudly displayed in special places. I can't wait to look for other Emma gifts this year. Spend part of the holidays looking for signs. You'll see them. This year on Thanksgiving morning, I looked out the kitchen window and there were literally dozens of cardinals all over the garden and in nearly every branch of the tree we planted the first year in Emma's honor. We laughed -- yes, laughed -- and speculated that Emma must have taught all of her friends to become cardinals too just so they could party at the Mebane house.
4. Say her name. Tell stories about him. One of the common reactions I've heard from friends who have suffered loss is that no one talks about the person they've lost. They somehow believe that not doing so will help... that perhaps it will be too painful for you to hear their names. Of course it's painful. But it's even more so to pretend they never existed. I want everyone to remember every aspect of Emma. I want to hear the stories I know over and over. I want to discover stories I don't know. I need to know she mattered to every person who ever knew her. Even after three years, her best friends still post on her Facebook and I answer every one of them usually thanking them for "keeping Emma in your heart." People will take their cue from you. Talk about what you love most, miss most, makes you the saddest, makes you the happiest. Say her name and others will too.
5.Take time for you. I have found that I need much more "me" time than I did before Emma died. I get tired more often, especially after time with family and friends. I take naps frequently. I often leave work to take a walk or just sit by myself in the lounge. I'm not the conversationalist I used to be. I am comfortable with silence. Me time may be tough to find during the holidays, but it's essential that you recognize when you need it and act on that need.
6. Allow yourself to be sad but also to experience joy. It's okay to cry. Christmas will always make me sad -- my mom's death shadows memories of my own childhood; Emma's death shadows the present and the children she will never have will shape the future. I plan for sadness and I embrace it when it comes. I sit down by myself and write a letter to Emma or listen to her favorite songs or replay the slide show we played at her funeral. I walk right into the pain rather than try to hold it off. But I try to embrace joy when it comes too and it does come. It will come for you. It may be filtered through the hole in your heart, but it will come. You will laugh again and it will likely be during a holiday when the love of family and friends can't help but make you smile. Your laughter, when it comes, will be the greatest gift you can give to others. They are taking their cue from you. Be authentic. To be anything else takes too much effort.
May memories of your loved one bring you some happiness during this holiday season.
To view more grief resources and attend one of our upcoming workshops, visit our Grief Support page.
