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Local High School Students Awarded Scholarships for Advocacy and Support of Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation

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.

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Transplant Growth Collaboration in New Jersey Drives Progress and Innovation in Organ Donation and Transplantation

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)

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NJ Sharing Network Celebrates National Minority Donor Awareness Month by Honoring Multicultural Organ and Tissue Donors

(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

  1. Edward Damirr Ross with his son, Jace (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
  2. Priya Kannusamy with her husband, Venu Prabhakar, her daughter, Swathi Prabhakar, and her son, Surya Prabhakar (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
  3. Julian Rosado (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
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Sharing Network Foundation Contributes Over 100 Children’s Books to Support the County of Union’s Inclusive Book Program

(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)

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The Wave Set Celebrates 10th Anniversary of the Wohl Brothers’ Lifesaving Liver Transplant with $10,000 Contribution to the Sharing Network Foundation

July 17, 2024 – In a heartfelt celebration of the 10th anniversary of their lifesaving liver transplant, co-founders of The Wave Set Cameron and Jared Wohl of Little Falls and Livingston, NJ, have announced a philanthropic contribution of $10,000 to the Sharing Network Foundation. This gift will support the newly established Joseph S. Roth Simulation Center, a state-of-the-art training facility at NJ Sharing Network’s (NJSN’s) headquarters. The Simulation Training Center is crucial for enhancing the education and training of healthcare professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped to manage organ and tissue donors and support families, ultimately helping to save more lives.

“Contributing to the Simulation Training Center and the hands-on training it will provide in a real-world setting is our way of giving back to NJ Sharing Network and the community that has supported us throughout our transplant journey. As a former educator, and having been a living transplant donor, it means so much to be able to play a part in maximizing organ donation outcomes at NJSN and helping to save and enhance more lives through education,” said Jared Wohl.

“Our contribution is not just about honoring our ten-year milestone; it’s about investing in the future of organ and tissue donation and ensuring that NJ Sharing Network’s teams have the best training possible to make the biggest impact on the number of organs recovered and, ultimately, number of lives saved,” said Cameron Wohl.

A Decade of Gratitude and Advocacy

On February 11, 2014, Jared Wohl, then 27, donated 65 percent of his liver to his younger brother, Cameron, then 24, who was battling primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a rare autoimmune disease impacting the bile ducts of the liver, via a living donor transplant. The successful transplant marked the beginning of a new chapter for both brothers, who continue to advocate for organ and tissue donation awareness and education.

The Wave Set: Spreading Awareness and Educating

In 2013, leading up to the transplant, Jared and Cameron founded The Wave Set, an organization aimed at raising awareness and educating the public about the importance of organ and tissue donation, while showing the world that “We Are Vital to Each Other.” Now a named fund of the Sharing Network Foundation, The Wave Set has been instrumental in promoting organ and tissue donor registration and supporting donor families. In 2016, they launched a crowdfunded documentary, “65 Percent,” depicting their family’s journey through the transplant experience and offering a poignant look at the impact of organ donation. The documentary can be viewed at www.sharingnetworkfoundation.org/the-wave-set. Since then, Jared and Cameron have planned and executed speaking engagements and fundraising events to support The Wave Set’s mission.

Reflecting on Ten Years of Life and Health

“It’s surreal to see how far we’ve come since the transplant. When I’m having a tough day, I’ll occasionally think back and it helps give much needed perspective on how fragile life is and what’s really important – our health. And to see my brother and nephew, it’s just incredible,” said Jared. Cameron echoed these sentiments, stating, “I’m so grateful to have my health. I think of all the things I’ve done in the time span since my transplant – going back to school, picking up hockey again, changing careers, starting a family. It helped shape me into the person I am and the outlook I have.”

A Full Circle Journey

Cameron’s post-transplant journey led him to pursue a career in healthcare. After becoming a registered nurse, he worked in the operating room at University Hospital in Newark, where he had the chance to collaborate with one of the surgeons from his transplant team. Cameron now works as a Field Clinical Specialist, introducing new therapies to physicians to optimize patient outcomes, combining his passions for patient care, relationship building, and technology.

Jared works as a Senior Account Director in SAAS sales, partnering with higher education institutions to strategize ways to improve their academic offerings, fuel skill development for staff and faculty, hire top talent, and support student career-readiness. He is also a singer-songwriter and the proud father of two young boys.

Supporting the Joseph S. Roth Simulation Center

The Joseph S. Roth Simulation Training Center, named and dedicated in memory of NJSN’s former President and CEO, is designed to prepare clinical teams with the best hands-on learning options available to manage organ and tissue donors and support families. The center features the same advanced technologies and equipment used in partner hospitals throughout New Jersey, including patient simulators, monitors, ventilators, and advanced video technologies.

Looking Ahead

With Cameron’s primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) in remission and the recent birth of his son, Lucas John, the Wohl family has much to celebrate. The brothers, along with their families, continue their mission of spreading awareness and educating the public about organ and tissue donation.

“One way we can save more lives is to get more people to sign up as registered organ donors and consider living donation,” said Jared. Cameron added, “ Perhaps even more important is sharing those wishes with your family.”

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NJ Sharing Network Names Catherine M. DeAppolonio of Scotch Plains as General Counsel and Government Affairs

(April 25, 2024 - NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, has appointed Catherine M. DeAppolonio as General Counsel and Government Affairs. DeAppolonio oversees crucial elements of the organization’s legal operations, including the identification, evaluation, and treatment of risk within the organization. She also directs reviews of policies and procedures and educates team members on NJ Sharing Network corporate compliance processes.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of NJ Sharing Network’s esteemed leadership team to advance our lifesaving mission. Every day brings fresh opportunities to contribute to the powerful impact organ and tissue donation and transplantation has on the lives of donor families, recipients, and our entire community,” said DeAppolonio, who residents in Scotch Plains with her husband, Christian Solis, and their son, Michael.

DeAppolonio earned a Juris Doctorate from Albany Law School of Union University and was admitted to the practice of law in New Jersey in 2005 and New York in 2006. For more than 16 years, she served in private practice concentrating in the areas of civil litigation, employment defense, public entity defense, and law enforcement defense. DeAppolonio has appeared in state and federal courts handling cases from the pre-lawsuit phase, to depositions, discovery, motions, mediation and through jury trial and appeal. She was appointed by the New Jersey Supreme Court to the District XII Ethics Committee, 2013-2021, and named to the New Jersey Super Lawyers Rising Stars lists, 2018-2020.

DeAppolonio’s role at NJ Sharing Network focuses her legal talents on a cause she is passionate about. Catherine has supported organ and tissue donation since her best friend and college roommate at the University of New Hampshire suddenly passed away at the age of 20 and saved the lives of others as an organ donor.

“Our NJ Sharing Network team members admire Catherine for her dedication and proven leadership in spearheading best practices for our organization,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO, NJ Sharing Network. “Her expertise and critical thinking skills will help ensure NJ Sharing Network’s continued growth as one of the top performing Organ Procurement Organizations (OPO) in the nation.”

NJ Sharing Network, headquartered in New Providence, NJ, partners with an extensive network of 54 local hospitals to provide hope for the nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and it is part of the national recovery system for the over 100,000 people on the national transplant waiting list. For five consecutive years, NJ Sharing Network has reported organ donation records, and 3.8 million New Jerseyans are registered as organ and tissue donors, according to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). NJ Sharing Network has also been recognized by NJBIZ for six consecutive years as one of the state’s ‘Best Places to Work.’ To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

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Colt Neck’s Carolyn M. Welsh Celebrates 25 Years of Saving and Enhancing Lives at NJ Sharing Network

(April 3, 2024 – NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – Carolyn M. Welsh, a lifelong resident of Colts Neck, NJ, was recently honored by NJ Sharing Network for her 25 years of service in advancing the organization’s lifesaving efforts in the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue in the state.

As President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network, Welsh led the way in 2023 as the number of organs transplanted in a single year reached an all-time high of 715, a significant 7% increase over the previous record. Additionally, 44,266 eye and tissue gifts were made, enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals in need.

“I am honored to work alongside amazing people who understand that what we do is much more than a job – it is a unified mission to save lives and offer caring and compassionate support to donor families during their most difficult times of grief. Our team members, hospital partners and our NJ Sharing Network community have helped us reach new levels of excellence in organ and tissue donation and transplantation,” said Welsh. “Thanks to the generosity of New Jersey organ donors and their families, more organs were transplanted than ever before – ensuring others now have more time to share special moments with their loved ones.”

For five consecutive years, NJ Sharing Network has reported organ dona􀆟on records, and the number of New Jerseyans saying ‘YES’ to registering as organ and tissue donors is also on the rise as over a million residents joined the New Jersey Donor Registry in 2023, according to the National Donate Life Registry and NJ MVC data. NJ Sharing Network has also been recognized by NJBIZ, New Jersey’s leading business journal, for six consecutive years as one of the state’s ‘Best Places to Work.’

Welsh was recently recognized by NJBIZ on its prestigious lists of New Jersey’s Best 50 Women in Business and the Health Care Power 50. Welsh was also recognized on ROI-NJ’s 2023 Health Care Influencers list.

In addition to Welsh’s role at NJ Sharing Network, she serves on the Board of Directors for Eversight, the Seton Hall University Alumni and the Caucus Educational Corporation (CEC).
Welsh earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Seton Hall University and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Nonprofit Management from North Central University.

About NJ Sharing Network

NJ Sharing Network, headquartered in New Providence, NJ, is the federally designated non-profit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State. NJ Sharing Network partners with an extensive network of 54 local hospitals to provide hope for the nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and it is part of the national recovery system for the over 100,000 people on the national transplant waiting list. For five consecutive years, NJ Sharing Network has reported organ donation records, and 3.8 million New Jerseyans are registered as organ and tissue donors, according to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). NJ Sharing Network has also been recognized by NJBIZ for six consecutive years as one of the state’s ‘Best Places to Work.’ To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

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The Sharing Network Foundation Receives $25,000 Grant from Kohl’s National Giveback Initiative to Help Save and Enhance More Lives Through Organ and Tissue Donation

(February 2, 2024 – NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization responsible for saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, has received a powerful boost for its lifesaving mission thanks to a generous $25,000 grant contribution from Kohl’s to the Sharing Network Foundation. As part of its National Giveback Initiative, Kohl’s contribution to the Sharing Network Foundation will help fund clinical advancement, family support, public awareness and education about the life-saving benefits of organ and ossue donation and transplantation.

“We are honored to be nationally recognized by Kohl’s and grateful to receive this generous grant funding through the Kohl’s National Giveback Initiative. Kohl’s and all of our community partners and supporters are a driving force behind our efforts to care for our organ and tissue donor families and enrich the lives of transplant recipients as they share in more special moments with their loved ones,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation.

Kohl’s grant funding is made possible through Kohl’s Cares Goods for Good, which sells children’s books and toys and contributes 100 percent of the net profit to health and wellness organizations nationwide. In total, Kohl’s has awarded more than $29 million to nonprofits through this giving program since 2018.

“Giving back in the communities where we live and work is a core part of who we are at Kohl’s and we’re grateful for the organizations that are taking action to improve family health and wellness nationwide,” said Christie Raymond, Chief Marke􀆟ng Officer, Kohl’s.

According to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), there are over 100,000 Americans – nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey – waitng for a life-saving transplant. One organ andtssue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit
www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

About Kohl’s
Kohl’s (NYSE: KSS) is a leading omnichannel retailer built on a foundation that combines great brands, incredible value and convenience for our customers. Kohl’s serves millions of families in more than 1,100 stores in 49 states, online at Kohls.com, and through the Kohl’s App For more information about Kohl’s impact in the community visit www.Corporate.Kohls.com.
About NJ Sharing Network

NJ Sharing Network is the federally designated non-profit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State. NJ Sharing Network partners with an extensive network of 54 local hospitals to provide hope for nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and it is part of the national recovery system for the over 100,000 people on the national transplant waiting list. For five consecutive years, NJ Sharing Network has reported organ donation records, underscoring the generosity of New Jerseyans and the clear trend of growing support for organ and tissue donation. With headquarters in New Providence, NJ, the organization has been recognized by NJBIZ as one of the state’s ‘Best Places to Work’ for the last six years. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

About the Sharing Network Foundation
The Sharing Network Foundation supports the work of NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State. The Foundation is commited to increasing the number of lives saved through clinical advancement, family support, public awareness and education about the lifesaving benefits of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. For more information or to make a contribution, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org.

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Piscataway High School’s Donate Life Club Earns National Recognition for Raising Awareness About Organ and Tissue Donation

(January 8, 2024 – Piscataway, NJ) – Donate Life America presented its prestigious 2023 Excellence in Youth Education Award to Piscataway High School’s (PHS) Donate life Club (DLC) for its outstanding efforts in raising awareness about the importance of saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The DLC student members worked throughout the year to educate their fellow classmates and community residents about organ and tissue donation, plan volunteer events to support NJ Sharing Network, and inspire people to register as organ and tissue donors. Divakaran Manimaran, a senior at PHS and president and founder of the PHS DLC, led the club’s efforts in organizing various events and activities on-campus and in the local community. The impact of these efforts was multiplied by the creative development of social media pages, printed flyers, advertisements, and a local news media editorial. Other efforts mobilized students to share ‘real talk’ discussions with family members and community residents to help dispel many myths and misconceptions about organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

Currently, there are over 100,000 Americans – nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey – waiting for a life-saving organ transplant, according to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Just one organ and tissue donor can save 8 lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.