On August 10, hundreds of local residents enjoyed a beautiful day at Vera Ames Park in Paterson during NJ Sharing Network’s Live Healthy and Move community event. Attendees of all ages enjoyed great music, health screenings, fitness programs and games while learning about the importance of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. NJ Sharing Network also distributed school supplies to K-12 students through its ‘Back-to-School Drive.’
Born and raised in Paterson, E. Denise Peoples, Senior Manager of Community Services, NJ Sharing Network, is a double-lung transplant recipient who coordinates Live Healthy & Move events and promotes NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission in local schools, faith-based organizations and community associations. She understands the importance of raising awareness about the impact of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.
“Live Healthy & Move is just one of the ways our NJ Sharing Network team gives back and expresses our gratitude to our local communities. It is a wonderful opportunity for NJ Sharing Network’s team members, volunteers, and supporters to connect with local residents in our diverse communities throughout the Garden State. We were thrilled to bring this popular family event back to Paterson thanks to the generous support of our dedicated community partners,” said Peoples.
NJ Sharing Network’s Live Healthy & Move event in Paterson took on additional meaning as August is National Minority Donor Awareness Month, a time to honor the generosity of multicultural organ and tissue donors and their families, while also underscoring the critical need for people from diverse communities to register as organ and tissue donors. In addition to NJ Sharing Network, several local organizations were on hand providing information and giveaways, including St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson Police Department and Ceasefire Unit, Paterson Fire Department, Green Acre Community Garden, Fidelity Chapter #16, Order of the Eastern Star, Public Housing Authority (PHA), National Diabetes Association, Rutgers Cancer Center, Fitness for Her, Bragg Funeral Home.
According to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are waiting for a lifesaving transplant, and 67% are people of color. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 people.
“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.
NJ Sharing Network’s next Live Healthy & Move event is scheduled for 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.
(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network (NJSN), the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, recently presented Volunteer Recognition Awards to local residents for their outstanding efforts in supporting its lifesaving mission. The awards were presented during NJ Sharing Network’s 2024 Volunteer Appreciation Reception at its headquarters in New Providence.
PHOTO CAPTION
Pictured here are award recipients (left-to-right) Rachel Schott of AbbVie, Inc., Cathy Cerbo of Mountain Lakes, Diane Borman of Summit, Rudy DiGilio of Washington, NJ, Dhivyasree Manimaran of Piscataway, Lakisha Bray of Plainfield, Lavarra M. Hines, Jr. (LJ) of West Orange, and Valerie Phillips of AbbVie, Inc. Award recipients not pictured are Richard Hayes of Monroe Township and Sam Prince of North Caldwell. (PHOTO CREDIT – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
“Volunteers are the heart of our mission. They help strengthen our public education efforts, encouraging more people to say, ‘YES’ to save lives by registering as organ and tissue donors,” said Alyssa D’Addio, Vice President, Hospital and Community Services, NJSN.
Community Hero Awards presented to Lakisha Bray of Plainfield and Rudy DiGilio of Washington, NJ
Volunteers play a key role in NJSN’s community outreach and public education efforts. The Community Hero Awards are presented to individuals who have gone the extra mile in sharing our lifesaving mission.
Lakisha Bray of Plainfield is an incredibly strong and resilient woman who is spreading the importance of organ donation through her story of losing her daughter and sister. Lakisha’s daughter, Talea, was born with cerebral palsy and passed away just before her 21st birthday. Talea was able to save three lives with her donations. Just six months later, Lakisha’s sister Tabitha died while waiting for an intestinal transplant. Lakisha has become a powerful advocate for NJSN’s mission to honor both of their memories.
Rudy DiGilio of Washington, NJ, was inspired to support NJSN after donating one of his kidneys to his brother. He has represented NJSN at countless community events since becoming a volunteer in 2018. He has also conducted speaking presentations at local high schools, businesses, and at Liberty Science Center.
Youth Volunteer Awards were presented to Lavarra M. Hines, Jr. (LJ) of West Orange, and Dhivyasree Manimaran of Piscataway
NJSN’s youth volunteers add energy and creative ideas to many of our outreach projects and activities. The Youth Volunteers of the Year Awards are presented to local high school students who go the extra mile to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation in his/her school and local community.
Lavarra M. Hines, Jr (LJ) of West Orange has been a youth volunteer for more than 10 years. LJ was inspired to get involved with NJSN after his godfather passed away and became an organ donor. LJ created a NJSN 5K Celebration of Life team in memory of his godfather. As a student at Newark Academy, LJ helped coordinate NJSN presentations in the school’s driver’s education courses for the past two years.
Dhivyasree Manimaran of Piscataway has been volunteering for NJSN since she was in middle school. She is now a key member of Piscataway High School’s Donate Life Club and will serve as the club’s president in the 2024/2025 academic year. Dhivyasree has helped grow the DLC’s student membership and has been instrumental in community awareness events throughout the year.
Jim Rhatican Legacy Award presented to Richard Hayes of Monroe Township
The Jim Rhatican Legacy Award is named in memory of longtime NJSN volunteer Jim Rhatican, a liver transplant recipient who shared his personal story of hope with students, teachers and parents as part of NJSN’s High School Heroes Program. The award recognizes a volunteer who has made a powerful commitment to educating local students about the importance of registering as an organ and tissue donor.
Richard Hayes of Monroe Township has been a key volunteer for NJ Sharing Network since 2011. As a liver transplant recipient, Richard has made powerful presentations to over 5,000 students about the importance of registering as organ and tissue donors to help save and enhance lives.
Donate Life Group Leader Award presented to Cathy Cerbo of Mountain Lakes
NJSN’s Donate Life Groups (DLG) bring together local advocates and volunteers to take action and educate their own communities about organ and tissue donation. The Donate Life Group Leader Award recognizes a DLG member who has energized grassroots efforts to support NJSN’s lifesaving mission.
Cathy Cerbo of Mountain Lakes took an active lead in the Morris County DLG in 2016. Her father, Nick Cerbo, started the group after receiving a lifesaving heart transplant. Cathy kept the group active and energized throughout the pandemic and is continually developing creative ways to attract new DLG members.
Wrapped In Love Volunteer Award was presented to Diane Borman of Summit
NJSN’s Wrapped in Love program provides beautiful handmade shawls and blankets to families who have said ‘YES’ to organ and tissue donation as a tangible expression of comfort and compassion. The Wrapped In Love Volunteer of the Year recognizes an individual who has dedicated his/her time and talent to crochet or knit creations that express love and support for our donor families.
Diane Borman of Summit has been a Wrapped in Love volunteer since 2010. She has expressed her caring spirit and creativity by making hundreds of beautiful blankets for organ donor families. She has also shared her knowledge with other volunteers to help them create blankets and shawls.
NJSN National Impact Award presented to Sam Prince of North Caldwell
NJSN’s powerful lifesaving message travels far beyond the borders of New Jersey. The NJSN National Impact Award recognizes an individual who has delivered our lifesaving message to audiences throughout the nation.
Sam Prince of North Caldwell was born with multiple congenital heart defects. For the first seven years of his life, Prince thrived as best as he could, undergoing numerous surgeries and surviving on medication. Finally, he received a lifesaving heart transplant when he was 8 years old. For more than a decade, Sam has been a powerful and well-recognized advocate for NJSN. He became internationally recognized as the New York Giants “superfan” who stole the show during the 2022 NFL Draft. Thanks to Make-A-Wish America, Sam joined NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on stage in Las Vegas while presenting the Giants’ No. 5 overall pick, Kayon Thibodeaux. Prince won over fans worldwide with his animated personality and now viral interaction with Thibodeaux.
Community Partner Award presented to AbbVie, Inc.
Partnerships matter! NJSN’s Community Partner Award honors the invaluable contributions of a local organization or corporation that has helped produce amazing results within NJSN’s public education efforts.
AbbVie, Inc. played an important part in NJSN’s Back-to-School Supplies Drive to benefit students in need in Camden and Paterson. AbbVie employees saw an opportunity to rally together and make a difference in the lives of local children by ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed in their educational journey. Their generous contributions included notebooks, folders, pens, pencils, calculators, and more. The award was accepted by Rachel Schott and Valerie Phillips of AbbVie, Inc.
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Seven New Jersey high school students were awarded scholarships from the Sharing Network Foundation for their passion and dedication to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The 2024 graduates were presented with their scholarship awards at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence. The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarships are made possible thanks to several of the organization’s family and partner funds:
Hearts for Emma Partner Fund – created in celebration of Emma Rothman’s lifesaving heart transplant to support high school education and donation advocacy efforts.
Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund – created in memory of Jim Rhatican, a NJ Sharing Network Volunteer, liver transplant recipient and retired teacher and coach of 35 years.
Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund – created in celebration of Missy Rodriguez’s lifesaving liver transplant to follow her passion as a college counselor through scholarships for high school students.
Riley’s Path – created in memory of organ donor Riley Kogen to provide financial assistance to transplant patients in times of crisis, and to award scholarships to high school students and advocacy heroes.
Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund – created in memory of organ and tissue donor Dan Buckiewicz to encourage students to have conversations about donation with their families and friends.
The 2024 scholarship recipients are:
Nathaniel Attardi of Manasquan (2024 graduate of Wall High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Nathaniel’s commitment to organ and tissue donation advocacy was inspired by his Uncle Pat Clay’s need for a kidney transplant. Witnessing his uncle’s struggle and eventual success with receiving a donor kidney highlighted the dire need for organ donors. Nathaniel actively participates in awareness events to promote organ and tissue donation. He emphasizes the importance of encouraging new drivers to consider registering as donors. His interactions with transplant recipients have reinforced his belief in the lifesaving power of donation. Nathaniel also focuses on dispelling myths and addressing concerns to alleviate fears about donation. He advocates for community campaigns and collaborations with medical professionals to raise awareness.
Anika Bhatnagar of Edison (2024 graduate of Middlesex Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences) received a scholarship from the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Anika’s advocacy for organ donation was inspired by her father’s battle with IgA nephropathy and lifesaving kidney transplant in 2019. Recognizing the critical need for increased awareness, she began volunteering with the NJ Sharing Network in 2021. Anika organized educational booths, led fundraisers, and hosted livestreams to share stories of donors and recipients, including her parents’ experience. She participated in panel discussions, leveraged social media, and partnered with local leaders to promote the cause. Her efforts included a mayoral proclamation for National Donate Life Month and public service announcements. Anika also established a Donate Life club at her high school to educate peers about organ donation. Her initiatives have earned her several awards, including the Student of the Year award from the Edison Chamber of Commerce and the Youth Volunteer award from NJ Sharing Network.
Lavarra (LJ) Hines of West Orange (2024 graduate of Newark Academy) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. LJ’s advocacy for organ and tissue donation is inspired by his godfather, Dr. Randall Giles, a trauma surgeon and organ donor who saved multiple lives. Since age nine, LJ has volunteered at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life, starting at the t-shirt giveaway tent and later as a photographer. These experiences taught him the importance of community service and the critical need for organ and tissue donors, particularly within the African American community. LJ has actively spread awareness by distributing educational materials at various events and using his 5K race shirts as conversation starters. LJ successfully arranged for NJ Sharing Network team members to present at his school to teach driver’s education students about organ and tissue donation. His efforts have inspired many of his peers to register as donors.
Kimmy Kenny of Brick Township (2024 graduate of Brick Township High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Kimmy’s understanding and advocacy for organ and tissue donation stem from her firsthand experiences and aspirations. Inspired by a childhood skin graft surgery that was made memorable by her mother and compassionate doctors, Kimmy aims to become a Cardiovascular Transplant Physician. She emphasizes that transplants are life-changing, restoring not just physical health but also joy and normalcy to patients and their families. Kimmy is a registered organ and tissue donor, and she actively encourages others to do the same. Through her YouTube channel and personal interactions, Kimmy spreads awareness about the significance of organ donation, inspired by statistics showing a high demand for organs and low supply of donors.
Divakaran Manimaran of Piscataway (2024 graduate of Piscataway High School) received a scholarship from the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Divakaran’s commitment to organ and tissue donation advocacy began in September 2021 when he volunteered at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life. Inspired by conversations with participants, including a heart transplant recipient and a mother who made the selfless decision to donate her son’s organs, Divakaran co-founded the Donate Life Club (DLC) at his high school. The Piscataway High School DLC has been active in the community, hosting information stalls at local events and encouraging discussions about organ donation among students and their families. Under Divakaran’s leadership, the DLC participated in over 20 events and raised over $1,300 for the Sharing Network Foundation. The club also received the “Excellence in Youth Education” award from Donate Life America.
Jack Miller of Robbinsville (2024 graduate of Robbinsville High School) received a scholarship from the Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund. Jack’s lifelong connection to organ and tissue donation stems from his personal experiences with his grandmothers. His paternal grandmother received a double lung transplant, and his maternal grandmother, who played a significant role in his upbringing, required a kidney transplant. Jack’s father donated a kidney to save her life, reinforcing the family’s commitment to organ donation. Jack actively shares his family’s organ donation stories, influencing friends and peers to register as organ and tissue donors. He proudly displays an organ donation sticker on his car and has participated in community events and activities to help raise awareness.
Delia Perretta of Wyckoff (2024 graduate of Ramapo High School) received a scholarship from the Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund. Delia’s advocacy for NJ Sharing Network is deeply personal, inspired by her older cousin Marielle, who underwent three transplants due to biliary atresia. Witnessing Marielle’s struggles, Delia chose to spread awareness about organ and tissue donation for her Girl Scout Gold Award project. She focused on new teen drivers, encouraging them to register as organ and tissue donors. Delia utilized TikTok, creating engaging content featuring her cats to attract viewers and dispel myths about organ and tissue donation. She also mailed informational pamphlets to driving schools in New Jersey and developed a digital presentation for driver’s education classes in her school district, ensuring her message reached new drivers. Her efforts have led to tangible impacts, with many individuals registering as donors because of her project.
The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarship program provides an opportunity to recognize and award graduating high school seniors whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Applicants were measured on academic achievement, community and volunteer efforts, extracurricular activities and advocacy for organ and tissue donation. Since the scholarship program’s inception in 2011, more than $130,000 has been awarded to 65 dedicated student advocates.
“We are grateful for the generous support of our partner funds and their ongoing commitment to rewarding students who share a commitment to our lifesaving mission,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation. “We know that all of our scholarship awardees will continue as strong leaders educating others about donation and transplantation throughout their college years and beyond.”
PHOTO CAPTION (Photo Credit” Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(Standing left-to-right, holding scholarship award certificates) Nathaniel Attardi of Wall High School, Lavarra (LJ) Hines of Newark Academy, Delia Perretta of Ramapo High School, Anika Bhatnagar of Middlesex Academy for Allied Health and Biomedical Sciences, Divakaran Manimaran of Piscataway High School, Jack Miller of Robbinsville High School, and Kimmy Kenny of Brick Township High School. (Standing left-to-right with the scholarship recipients) Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation, Ryan Rhatican of the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund, Mitch Kogen of the Riley’s Path Fund, Missy Rodriguez of the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund, Nancie Rothman of the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund, Jane and Bruce Buckiewicz of the Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund, Jay Rhatican of the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund, and Debbie Prince, Chair of the Sharing Network Foundation Programs & Initiatives Committee.
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.
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