(DENVER, CO) – Wayne resident Jean Sime and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford celebrated a remarkable milestone while representing Team Liberty at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado, commemorating the seventh anniversary of the lifesaving kidney transplant that forever changed both of their lives.
The biennial Transplant Games brought together thousands of transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, and supporters from all 50 states and several countries for a week of athletic competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Participants competed in more than 20 events including basketball, track and field, swimming, pickleball, bowling, cornhole, and trivia. This year’s Games also set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipients, with 966 participants assembled in one place.
Sime and Milford represented Team Liberty, a program of the Sharing Network Foundation that includes participants from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. The pair competed in bowling, team trivia, darts and Texas Hold ‘Em. Sime also competed in cornhole.
Their amazing connection began seven years ago when Milford, a longtime nurse at Mountainside Medical Center, volunteered to become a living kidney donor for someone she had never met. That someone was Sime, who had spent years battling chronic kidney disease and undergoing dialysis while waiting for a transplant. What began as a selfless act of generosity has since grown into a lifelong friendship the two women often describe as a sisterhood.
“Celebrating our transplant anniversary at the Transplant Games made the experience even more unforgettable,” said Sime. “Looking around, I saw thousands of people who have all been given another chance at life through organ donation. Being there together with Pat, my living kidney donor, was a precious gift. Many transplant recipients never know who their donor is, while others may know them, but don’t have the opportunity to share life experiences and celebrate milestones together. I will never take this gift for granted.”
For Milford, the anniversary was equally emotional.
“Seven years have gone by so quickly, and seeing Jean healthy, active, and enjoying life is the greatest gift I could ever receive,” said Milford. “Being together at the Transplant Games reminded us how one act of kindness can ripple through so many lives. I hope our story encourages more people to learn about living donation and deceased organ and tissue donation because you truly have the power to save the lives of others.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Learn more or register as a donor at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO #1: Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (left) and Wayne resident Jean Sime (right) help set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipient during the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO #2: Wayne resident Jean Sime (left) and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (right) get set to compete in the bowling competition at the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO #3: Wayne resident Jean Sime (left) and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (right) celebrate their friendship and transplant bond at the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.) –Thousands gathered in New Providence on June 7 for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF-sanctioned race, presented by MTF Biologics. The event, which is one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, brought together organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and volunteers united by a shared commitment to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation. Funds raised will support the Sharing Network Foundation’s efforts to advance clinical innovation, provide family support, and expand public education and awareness programs.
Family members and friends of the late Gene Patrick Coppola Jr., 21, of Bayonne, NJ, walked together as part of “Team Gene Strong” to honor his memory and help raise awareness about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation.
Gene passed away in May 2022 following a tragic motorcycle accident, just weeks after his 21st birthday. A Bayonne native, Gene was building a future as a carpenter with Local 253 and had a passion for working with his hands, helping friends and family, and being someone others could count on.
Gene’s mother, Christina Fabiano, said her son’s decision to register as an organ and tissue donor was a reflection of the person he was. Through his selfless decision to be an organ donor, Gene helped save the lives of five people, giving them more time to enjoy cherished moments with their loved ones.
When Gene received his driver’s license with “Organ Donor” highlighted to show he was registered as a donor, he shared his thoughts with his mother in a conversation she will never forget.
“Gene said, ‘If God decides to take me, Mom, why would I let all my organs die and not save people’s lives?’” Christina recalled. “That was who Gene was. He always wanted to make a difference and help others in need.”
Christina hopes that sharing Gene’s story will encourage others to understand the power of organ donation.
“Gene’s life was too short, but his impact continues,” said Christina. “If his story can inspire someone to register as an organ and tissue donor, then his kindness and his gift of life will continue to help others.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans—including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents—are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save 8 lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO #1 – Members of “Team Gene Strong” at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO #2 – Gene Patrick Coppola, Jr. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO #3 – Gene Patrick Coppola, Jr. and his mother Christina Fabiano (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(DENVER, CO) – Team Liberty, representing organ transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, earned more than 90 medals at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado.
The group competed in events including basketball, track and field, swimming, pickleball, cornhole, and trivia, joining thousands of participants from all 50 states.
The Transplant Games also set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipients, with 966 participants assembled in one place.
Team Liberty is a program of the Sharing Network Foundation. It participates in the biennial Transplant Games and works year-round to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation and transplantation. More information is available at www.GoTeamLiberty.org.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Learn more or register as a donor at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – Six New Jersey high school students were awarded scholarships from the Sharing Network Foundation for their passion and dedication to raising awareness about organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The 2026 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:
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
The 2026 scholarship awardees are:
• Olivia Huttinot of Englewood, NJ (Dwight Morrow High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Olivia’s connection to organ and tissue donation stems from her personal experience as a kidney transplant recipient. Diagnosed at age four with severe kidney disease, she underwent extensive testing and care before it was confirmed that she required a kidney transplant. In a true act of love, her father became her living kidney donor, undergoing surgery alongside her. Following her transplant, Olivia faced a recovery that included ongoing medical care and a gradual return to school. Despite these challenges, she persevered academically and personally. Olivia reflects on her journey with deep gratitude for her family, her medical team, and the second chance at life she was given. Her experience continues to inspire her perspective and goals for the future. She will be attending St. John’s University in the Fall.
• Victoria Pribish of Old Bridge, NJ (Old Bridge High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Victoria’s perspective on organ and tissue donation was shaped by her father’s lifesaving heart transplant and the journey her family experienced alongside it. Her father, Mathew Pribish, a firefighter with the Linden Fire Department, was diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome and later developed advanced heart failure. He endured multiple surgeries and complications, including years supported by mechanical heart devices. Victoria witnessed her family navigate the uncertainty of the transplant waiting list and the moment they received the call that a donor heart had become available. A successful transplant gave her father a second chance at life. Following his recovery, he returned to full active duty and now shares his experience to encourage others to register as donors. For Victoria, this experience strengthened her sense of gratitude and shaped her commitment to service and resilience. She will be attending Monmouth University in the Fall.
• Leyla Rolon of South Plainfield, NJ (South Plainfield High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Leyla formed her perspective on organ and tissue donation through her father’s need for a kidney transplant and her family’s experience navigating the transplant waiting list. When no immediate match became available, her family received life-changing news: her mother matched as a living donor and chose to donate her kidney to her husband. That decision saved his life and deeply shaped Leyla’s understanding of sacrifice, love, and living donation. She witnessed her parents move through diagnosis, surgery, and recovery, and she developed a lasting appreciation for how donation brings hope to families. Leyla now shares her family’s story to encourage donor registration and raise awareness of organ and tissue donation. She will be attending Seton Hall University in the Fall.
• Olivia Teta of Manasquan, NJ (Wall High School) received a scholarship from the Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund. Olivia built her interest in organ and tissue donation advocacy through her goal of becoming a nurse and her involvement in her school’s Donate Life Club. As she learned more about transplantation, she recognized the impact of donation, including the role living donors play in saving patients on the transplant waiting list. She took on a leadership role in the club and served as Vice President of its Executive Board, where she coordinated educational programming, school-wide awareness campaigns, and outreach initiatives such as a club t-shirt design, a rock garden display, and Donate Life Month activities. She also helped develop a promotional video highlighting the club’s mission. Olivia plans to study nursing at Monmouth University in the Fall.
• Jessica Theobald of Verona, NJ (Verona High School) received a scholarship from the Daniel S. Buckiewicz Scholarship Fund. Jessica’s commitment to organ and tissue donation advocacy developed through multiple family experiences and early exposure to healthcare. Her mother’s career as a nurse introduced Jessica to the importance of donation at a young age. Her grandfather also donated his corneas after his passing, further shaping her understanding of the gift of donation. Jessica later supported a loved one through a lung transplant journey, gaining a deeper perspective on the challenges of the waiting list and transplant process. She also witnessed a family honor their son’s wish to become an organ donor after his passing, reinforcing the importance of donor registration and family conversations. Jessica expanded her commitment to service by joining her local rescue squad as a youth volunteer, where she gained experience in emergency medical services. She also strengthened her leadership and community engagement through volunteer work with The Arc of Essex County and the NJ Elks. Jessica plans to study nursing at Ramapo College of New Jersey in the Fall.
• Grace Trinidad of Teaneck, NJ (Teaneck High School) received a scholarship from the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Grace developed her commitment to organ and tissue donation advocacy after her mother experienced a sudden, life-threatening illness that led to a lifesaving heart transplant. During her mother’s hospitalization, Grace witnessed the compassion and dedication of the nurses who supported her family, and that inspired her to pursue a career in nursing. She credits her mother’s recovery and the generosity of an organ donor and their family with shaping her belief in the importance of donation. Grace volunteers at NJ Sharing Network events, including the 5K Celebration of Life, and participates in educational outreach with her family. She aspires to become a labor and delivery nurse serving underserved communities and will be attending Siena University in the Fall.
The Sharing Network Foundation’s high school 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 high school scholarship program’s inception in 2011, more than $160,000 has been awarded to 85 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 of the 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.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
GROUP PHOTO #1:
Recipients of the 2026 Sharing Network Foundation High School Scholarships, alongside representatives from the Sharing Network Foundation and its partner funds, gathered at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence to celebrate their commitment to organ and tissue donation advocacy.
(Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
INDIVIDUAL STUDENT PHOTOS:
Olivia Huttinot of Englewood, NJ (Dwight Morrow High School); Victoria Pribish of Old Bridge, NJ (Old Bridge High School); Leyla Rolon of South Plainfield, NJ (South Plainfield High School); Olivia Teta of Wall, NJ (Wall High School); Jessica Theobald of Verona, NJ (Verona High School); Grace Trinidad of Teaneck, NJ (Teaneck High School)
(New Providence, NJ) — Players, coaches and parents from the BC Cyclones 12U Red baseball team recently visited NJ Sharing Network to learn about the impact of organ and tissue donation and the importance of giving back to others.
The team toured NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence, where they saw how the organization coordinates organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Players visited the Transplant Laboratory, where donor and recipient matching supports lifesaving transplants, and the Donation Resource Center, where communications are managed with hospitals and families throughout the donation process. They also viewed the headquarters’ remembrance walls, artwork and donor tributes honoring individuals whose gifts have saved and enhanced lives.
“It was an incredible experience touring the NJ Sharing Network headquarters and seeing firsthand the amazing work that happens behind the scenes to help save and enhance lives,” said Marvin Cruz, Head Coach of the BC Cyclones 12U Red baseball team. “I was truly grateful to have the opportunity to bring the boys and allow them to learn more about the organ and tissue donation process, the mission, and the impact that NJ Sharing Network has on so many lives.”
The visit held special meaning for the DeMayo family of Wayne, NJ. BC Cyclones 12U Red player Luciano DeMayo is the son of Stefania DeMayo, whose heart transplant journey reflects the impact of organ donation.
In 2008, Stefania received a lifesaving heart transplant after being diagnosed with a rare form of cardiomyopathy. Her donor was 14-year-old Sean Clegg, a New Jersey teenager who died following an accident. During their time of unimaginable loss, Sean’s parents, Andrew and Gail Clegg, made the selfless decision to donate his organs, giving others a second chance at life. After receiving Sean’s heart, Stefania reached out to the Clegg family through NJ Sharing Network, beginning a close relationship between the two families.
Following her transplant, Stefania became a mother, welcoming twin daughters Melania and Natalia, and later her son Luciano. Her story reflects the lasting impact of organ donation and the legacy created by donors and their families.
“We were thrilled to welcome the BC Cyclones to NJ Sharing Network and share the message that every person has the power to make a difference,” said Ametra Burton, Manager of Strategic Partnerships, NJ Sharing Network. “Young athletes understand teamwork and supporting one another. We hope this experience showed them that those same qualities — compassion, kindness and selflessness — can also help save lives.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 in New Jersey — are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. One donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of more than 75 others. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
The BC Cyclones are a competitive youth travel baseball organization based in Little Ferry, New Jersey, with teams ranging from 7U through 15U+. The organization focuses on player development, leadership and character while competing in youth baseball tournaments and leagues throughout the region. To make a contribution to support the BC Cyclones, visit https://gofund.me/dd76c05d3
“Baseball teaches our players much more than the fundamentals of the game. It teaches teamwork, perseverance and the importance of being part of something bigger than themselves,” said Ron Klein, Coach of the BC Cyclones 12U Red baseball team. “Our visit to NJ Sharing Network allowed our players and families to see those values in a different setting and understand how one compassionate decision can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
PHOTO CAPTION – Members of the BC Cyclones 12U Red baseball team during their visit to NJ Sharing Network headquarters. Pictured here: Head Coach Marvin Cruz, Assistant Coach Daniel Slinger, Coaches Ron Klein and Alex Manzo, and players Michael Cruz, Luciano DeMayo, RJ Politz, Gino Prestigiacomo, Humza Parvaz, Dean Klein, and Mason Manzo. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(PARAMUS, N.J.) – As families across the nation celebrate Father’s Day, Paramus resident Rajesh Karnani is honoring the memory of his father, Sham C. Karnani, by continuing a mission that was deeply important to him: raising awareness about organ and tissue donation and encouraging families to have lifesaving conversations about their wishes.
Today, Rajesh is an active volunteer for NJ Sharing Network, a nonprofit organization committed to saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue. He regularly participates in donor awareness events throughout the Garden State, sharing his family’s story and encouraging others to register as organ and tissue donors.
“Every opportunity I have to share my father’s story is an opportunity to help save and enhance lives,” said Rajesh. “His example continues to inspire me, and I want others to understand the incredible impact one person’s decision to donate can have.”
A Father’s Lasting Gift
Born in India, Sham immigrated to the United States in the 1970s in pursuit of greater opportunities for his family. He built a successful career as a garment importer while becoming known among family, friends and community members for his generosity and compassion. According to Rajesh, his father believed that helping others was one of life’s greatest responsibilities.
“He always taught us that if we are fortunate enough to have a good life, we should do everything possible to help others do the same,” said Rajesh. “Organ and tissue donation was one of the causes he cared about most. He often told our family and friends, ‘We can’t take our organs on our journey to heaven, so why not help others complete their journey here on Earth?”
On March 17, 2010, Sham unexpectedly passed away from heart complications while attending a religious celebration with his wife. Although his death was sudden, his final gift reflected the values he championed throughout his life. Sham’s corneas were donated, restoring sight to two individuals in need.
“Losing my father has been painful, and I still sometimes find myself waiting for him to walk through the door, hear his voice, or see his smile,” said Rajesh. “But knowing that his legacy lives on through the sight he restored for others has brought solace to our family. The gift of vision, of possibility, is a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to seeing and fulfilling the needs of others.”
Turning Grief Into Purpose
Following his father’s passing, Rajesh made a commitment to carry that message forward. Through his volunteer work with NJ Sharing Network, he speaks about the importance of organ and tissue donation and encourages families to have conversations that can ultimately save lives.
“My father believed one of the biggest barriers to donation is that people don’t tell their loved ones about their wishes. Having that conversation can make all the difference and ultimately save lives,” said Rajesh.
The need for organ and tissue donors remains urgent. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant.
This Father’s Day, community members are encouraged to honor the legacy of all donor heroes by registering as organ and tissue donors and sharing their decision with loved ones. To learn more, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
Paramus resident Rajesh Karnani honors the memory of his father, Sham C. Karnani, whose donated corneas restored sight to two individuals following his passing in 2010. Today, Rajesh continues his father’s mission by volunteering with NJ Sharing Network and encouraging others to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
HASKELL, NJ — This Father’s Day carries a deeper meaning for the Greene family of Haskell, as they celebrate a gift far greater than anything wrapped in a box — the gift of life.
Just days before Father’s Day in 2019, Jordan Greene donated one of his kidneys to his father, Sean Greene, helping save his life and giving their family a renewed future together.
“I love my dad so very much, and I couldn’t stand to see him suffer,” said Jordan. “It felt like I was giving life to the person who gave it to me.”
Sean had been battling Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a rare disease that attacks the kidneys’ filtering functions and can lead to permanent damage. In 2003, Sean received a lifesaving kidney donation from his sister, but years later, that kidney began to fail. Doctors told him he would soon need dialysis and another transplant to survive.
Jordan, then a student at the University of Hartford, already knew in his heart what he wanted to do.
“I remember hearing as a kid that the kidney my dad got from my aunt wouldn’t last forever,” said Jordan. “I always knew that one day, I would help him next.”
After testing revealed Jordan was a match, father and son underwent surgery together in side-by-side operating rooms at Hackensack University Medical Center on June 10, 2019.
For Sean, accepting such an extraordinary gift from his son was emotional and difficult.
“I had always hoped this day might never come,” said Sean. “As a father, how could I put my son through this? But my son stepped up to the plate without hesitation, and I’m forever grateful.”
The successful transplant gave the Greene family something they feared they might lose — more healthy years together and a renewed appreciation for everyday moments.
“We as a family have grown closer than ever thanks to donation,” said Jordan. “I hope that anyone who is considering becoming a living donor does it because it can really change someone’s life for the better.”
Jordan’s mother, Lisa Johnson, described the experience as both frightening and inspiring.
“It was scary because the two men in my life were going into surgery together,” she said. “But seeing the love and strength between them was something I’ll never forget.”
Six years later, the experience continues to shape their family’s outlook, serving as a daily reminder of the power of organ donation and the importance of never taking time together for granted.
This Father’s Day, the Greene family is sharing their story to help raise awareness for NJ Sharing Network about the urgent need for living donors and registered organ and tissue donors. Their message is simple but powerful: one selfless decision can give a family more birthdays, more holidays, and more time together.
“If sharing our story encourages even one person to register as a donor or consider living donation, then it’s worth it,” said Jordan. “There are so many families still waiting for hope, and one decision can truly save a life.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about living kidney donation and deceased organ and tissue donation, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO #1: Jordan Greene and his father, Sean Greene (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO #2: Jordan Greene (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.) – Thousands gathered in New Providence on Sunday, June 7, for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF-sanctioned race, presented by MTF Biologics, to raise awareness and support for organ and tissue donation. The event is one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events.
The event brought together organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, volunteers, and advocates united by a shared commitment to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation. Funds raised by participants, teams, sponsors, and contributors will support the Sharing Network Foundation’s efforts to advance clinical innovation, provide family support, and expand public education and awareness programs. Since its inception in 2011, the 5K events have raised more than $14 million in support of NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans—including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents—are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.http://www.NJSharingNetwork.org
(SADDLE RIVER, N.J.) — Saddle River resident Jessica Zampieri will celebrate the 15-year anniversary of her lifesaving liver transplant on June 12, 2026 — a milestone made possible by the generosity of an organ donor after she suffered acute liver failure and urgently needed a transplant to survive.
Today, Jessica is a wife, mother of two boys, successful professional, author, and passionate advocate for NJ Sharing Network — living proof of the lifesaving power of transplantation and the lasting impact of organ and tissue donors and their families.
“I’m just grateful to be here,” said Jessica. “Every single day feels like a gift because I know how close I came to losing my life. My organ donor gave me time — time to fall in love, become a mother, build a family, and experience all of the moments I once thought I’d never have. This is why organ and tissue donation matters so much to me. Knowing my experience could motivate even one person to register as a donor makes sharing my story entirely worthwhile.”
In 2011, Jessica was a healthy, active young woman living in Ohio, working full-time and focused on fitness and wellness when unexplained symptoms began to appear. Over time, she experienced extreme fatigue and eventually collapsed at work. Doctors discovered her liver enzyme levels were dangerously elevated, and within days her condition rapidly deteriorated. She was rushed to the hospital and ultimately transferred to the transplant unit, where doctors informed her she urgently needed a liver transplant to survive.
In June 2011, she was placed at the top of the national transplant waiting list. Just days later, an 18-year-old deceased organ donor from Ohio gave her a second chance at life.
“I often think about my donor and his family,” said Jessica. “There are never enough words to express the gratitude I feel for the gift they gave me. Because of their selflessness, I’m here raising my children and living a full life.”
Although her recovery included additional complications and a second emergency surgery following the transplant, Jessica persevered. Within months, she returned to work and later relocated to New York City to continue pursuing her career and embrace what she describes as her “second chance at life.”
Not long afterward, she met her future husband, Michael. The couple recently celebrated their 10-year wedding anniversary and are raising their two sons, Robbie and Paulie. Jessica also chronicled her transplant journey in a book written to honor her donor, preserve her story, and encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors.
“When I look back on everything that happened, I’m reminded how quickly life can change. That perspective has shaped the way I live and approach every opportunity I’ve been given,” said Jessica. “Over the years, I’ve met so many people whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. It’s a community connected by resilience and an understanding of how precious life truly is.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO 1 – Jessica and Dr. Michael Zampieri with their children, Robbie and Paulie (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO 2 – Jessica and Dr. Michael Zampieri (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
(NORTH CALDWELL, N.J.) — North Caldwell resident Debbie Prince has been named Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Sharing Network Foundation, further strengthening her longtime commitment to advancing organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Prince will help lead the Foundation’s strategic efforts to raise philanthropic funds for clinical advancement, family support, public awareness and education about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees is comprised of a diverse group of individuals from both public and private sectors, many of whom have been touched by donation, including donor families and transplant recipients.
Prince has been involved with NJ Sharing Network and the Sharing Network Foundation since her son Sam Prince’s lifesaving heart transplant in 2011. April marked the 15th anniversary of Sam’s transplant journey — a milestone the Prince family celebrates with gratitude while continuing to give back through volunteerism, fundraising, and public advocacy.
“Fifteen years ago, our family received the greatest gift imaginable when Sam received his heart transplant,” said Prince. “Before his transplant, Sam couldn’t go to birthday parties, play on the playground, or even walk up the stairs without struggling to breathe. The gift of organ donation changed everything for our family and gave Sam the chance to truly live and thrive. Sam recently graduated from college — a milestone that never would have been possible without the gift of life he received. We got our lives back, and we’ve dedicated ourselves ever since to helping other families experience that same hope. I am honored to serve as Chair of the Sharing Network Foundation Board and continue supporting this lifesaving mission.”
Prince previously served as Vice Chair of the Sharing Network Foundation Board and has been deeply involved in the organization’s community outreach, fundraising efforts, and Foundation-funded initiatives.
“Debbie’s leadership, compassion, and authentic connection to our mission make her an extraordinary choice to serve as Chair of the Sharing Network Foundation Board,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation. “Her advocacy continues to inspire our entire community, and we are grateful for her continued commitment to helping save and enhance lives.”
The Prince family has become widely known throughout the NJ Sharing Network community for their enthusiastic participation in the annual 5K Celebration of Life. Their team, Max’s Mitzvah Movers, once again will participate in this year’s event.
“The 5K Celebration of Life is one of the most inspiring days of the year because it brings together donor families, transplant recipients, people waiting for a transplant, and supporters from across the community,” Prince added. “Our Max’s Mitzvah Movers team began as a mitzvah project started by our older son, Max, after Sam’s transplant, and it has grown into an incredible way for our family and friends to honor donor heroes and advocate for organ and tissue donation together.”
NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence, NJ. The event is one of the Garden State’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, bringing together thousands of participants to honor the gift of life and support the Sharing Network Foundation. To sign up to participate in the 5K Celebration of Life or contribute to a team, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO 1 – Debbie Prince (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
PHOTO 2 – The Prince Family – (l-r) Max, Sam, Debbie, and Mitch (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
