Category: Latest News

(Carteret, NJ) – When Karen Stash, RN, crosses the finish line at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 7, 2026, she will be celebrating far more than a race. She will be honoring the gift of life, the power of family, and the lifesaving decision she made to donate one of her kidneys to save her father’s life.

Karen, a Carteret resident and captain of the Hackensack Meridian Health – JFK University Medical Center 5K team, serves on the hospital’s Rapid Response Team. She has proudly led her coworkers, family members, and friends at the annual event held at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence.

“This event means everything to me,” said Karen. “Every year, I run the 5K and then walk it again with my team and family. I’m proud to stand with others whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation.”

Karen’s personal journey began when her father, Oscar Salgado of Union City, was diagnosed with kidney failure and required dialysis treatments three times a week. Once a hardworking and independent provider devoted to his wife and four children, Oscar’s health declined as dialysis took a heavy toll on his body and spirit.

Seeing her father struggle, Karen knew she wanted to help. As a nurse, she understood the lifesaving impact of organ donation and quietly began the process of being evaluated as a living donor.

“I already knew organ donation could change someone’s life,” said Karen. “But when it’s your dad sitting in that dialysis chair, it becomes deeply personal. I wanted to give him more time, more freedom, and the chance to feel like himself again.”

After extensive testing, Karen learned she was a match. On November 14, 2018, father and daughter underwent transplant surgery, and Oscar was able to come off dialysis immediately.

“First and foremost, I thank my Father, Jehovah, for His great mercy toward me,” said Oscar. “I also thank my daughter Karen for giving me another chance at life—in addition to those God has already granted me. May God protect my daughter and grant her abundant health, many years of life, and great blessings.”

Karen said watching her father regain his strength and independence has been one of the greatest joys of her life.

“To see him no longer tied to dialysis, to watch him enjoy time with my mom, my children, and our family again — that’s everything,” said Karen. “If I had to make the choice again, I would do it in a heartbeat.”

Since her donation, Karen has embraced advocacy and proudly shares her story to raise awareness about the need for organ donors, especially within Hispanic communities where conversations about donation can sometimes be less common.

“I want people to know that organ and tissue donation saves families,” said Karen. “It’s not just about adding years to someone’s life — it’s about adding life to their years.”

Now entering another year as captain of the JFK University Medical Center 5K team, Karen is looking forward to once again joining thousands of donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and supporters at the 5K Celebration of Life.

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 living kidney donation and deceased organ and tissue donation, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Karen Stash, RN, and her father, Oscar Salgado (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Members of JFK University Medical Center’s 5K Celebration of Life team (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(Denville, NJ) – Two years after the sudden passing of Denville resident Adam Bleznick, his family is turning grief into purpose by coming together for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in New Providence. Led by his wife, Emmie, the 5K team “Adam’s Warriors” honors Adam’s life and the legacy he left behind as an eye and tissue donor.

For Emmie and the couple’s 5-year-old son, Noah, the annual event has become a meaningful way to celebrate Adam while keeping his memory alive.

“Adam was everything to us — an incredible husband, an amazing father, and truly my best friend,” said Emmie. “Participating in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life gives us a way to honor him while also showing Noah how much his dad is still making a difference in the lives of others. It’s important to me that Noah grows up knowing who his father was and how many people he touched. Raising awareness about organ and tissue donation is so important. We hope more people will consider registering as donors so they can give others a second chance at life.”

Adam passed away in June 2024 at the age of 40. Born in Morristown and raised in Clifton and Wayne, Adam was known for his vibrant personality, quick wit, and deep passion for life. A graduate of Wayne Valley High School and Fairleigh Dickinson University, he built a career that reflected his diverse interests — from communications and sports to his true passion for wine and spirits. Above all else, Adam cherished his role as a husband and father. He and Emmie built a life together filled with love and laughter — from their marriage in 2016 to welcoming Noah in 2020 and settling into their home in the Indian Lake community.

“The bond Adam shared with Noah was something really special,” said Emmie. “They loved going on walks, singing songs, and just being silly together. Adam brought so much joy into our lives, and that’s what we carry with us every day.”

Through “Adam’s Warriors,” Emmie, Noah, and a growing group of family members and friends proudly participate in the 5K, united in remembrance and purpose.

“Last year was our first time participating in the 5K, and it meant so much to be surrounded by people who understand loss but also celebrate the gift of life,” said Emmie. “This event is incredibly powerful — it reminds us that even in the hardest moments, there is hope and there is healing.”

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 – Adam Bleznick (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #2 – Emmie and Adam Bleznick with their son, Noah Bleznick (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #3 – Members of the “Adam’s Warriors” 5K team at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life in June 2025 (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(CLARK, NJ) — This Mother’s Day will carry extraordinary meaning for the Prestinari family of Clark, as they celebrate a powerful gift that goes far beyond flowers or cards.

On November 5, Kathleen “Kathy” Prestinari underwent a successful kidney transplant, with her daughter, Kaitlyn Prestinari, serving as her living kidney donor. This past Tuesday marked the six-month milestone since the surgery. In the quiet moments since the transplant, it’s the simple things that mean the most for the Prestinari family —sharing meals together and enjoying time that once felt uncertain.

“This Mother’s Day definitely feels a lot different,” said Kathy. “It’s about life, family, and second chances. I get to celebrate because of my daughter.”

Kathy, a dedicated nurse who has spent her life caring for others, suddenly found herself on the other side of care in 2024. As her kidney disease progressed, her health declined, bringing physical and emotional challenges for the entire family. Despite exploring multiple donor options, none were viable—an all-too-common reality for patients who can spend years waiting for a match.

Witnessing her mother’s health decline, Kaitlyn felt compelled to act.

“My mom is the backbone of my family,” said Kaitlyn. “Seeing her like that, I knew I needed to step up—for her, for my dad, and for my three siblings. We need her with us for as long as possible.”

Since the transplant, the Prestinari family has experienced a renewed sense of gratitude and closeness. What began as a frightening and uncertain journey has become one defined by resilience, generosity, and hope.

“For a parent, there are no words to fully express what it feels like to receive a gift like this from your child,” said Kathy. “As a mother, you spend your life protecting them. To see Kaitlyn step forward with such strength and love—it’s overwhelming in the most beautiful way. She gave me more time, more memories, and more moments with my family. That is everything.”

Reflecting on her experience, Kaitlyn hopes their story inspires others to support the lifesaving mission of NJ Sharing Network.

“There are so many people out there waiting for an organ transplant and hoping for a second chance,” said Kaitlyn. “Becoming an organ donor means giving someone that chance—a chance to live, to love, and to share more time with the people who matter most.”

This Mother’s Day, the Prestinari family is sharing their story to raise awareness about the urgent need for both living donors and registered organ and tissue donors. The community has already rallied around the family throughout their journey. In November, Kaitlyn’s employer, Robert Half, hosted a fundraiser and raised more than $4,000 for the Sharing Network Foundation.

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 CAPTION – Kaitlyn Prestinari and Kathleen Prestinari (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(Barnegat, NJ) — Jennifer Severin of Barnegat is turning loss into purpose by leading “Team Big Mike” at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in New Providence. The team was created to honor the life and legacy of her husband, Michael J. Severin, who helped save the lives of others as an organ donor.

Affectionately called ‘Big Mike’ by those who knew him, Michael was only 37 when he tragically passed away after a motor vehicle accident in February 2020. While his loss was devastating for his family, Jennifer says his legacy continues to shine through the precious gift of life he passed on to others.

“Michael was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone,” said Jennifer. “He was a devoted husband, an incredible father, and someone who truly loved life. Knowing that he was able to help others through organ donation brings us comfort and gives us a reason to keep sharing his story.”

A lifelong New Jersey resident, Michael was born in Point Pleasant and raised in Brick before setling in Barnegat with Jennifer and their daughters, Liliana and Adalina. He worked for the Ocean County Utilities Authority and was actively involved in his union and the Free Masons. He had a deep passion for hunting and the outdoors, but above all else, his family was his world.

“Michael loved being a dad more than anything,” Jennifer added. “He was always making memories with our girls, always making people laugh, and always putting others first. That’s exactly how we want him to be remembered.”

Through “Team Big Mike,” Jennifer and a large circle of family and friends come together to celebrate Michael’s life and raise awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation.

“NJ Sharing Network’s 5K is something we look forward to because it’s not just about remembering Michael — it’s about honoring the gift of life,” said Jennifer. “Seeing so many families come together, all with their own stories, is incredibly powerful. It reminds us that even in loss, there is hope.”

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 – Michael Severin (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #2 – Jennifer and Michael Severin with their daughters, Liliana and Adalina (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #3 – Michael Severin with his daughters, Liliana and Adalina (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

HOBOKEN, NJ — April is National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation. 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. One organ and tissue donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.

For Hoboken resident Susana Guarino, those numbers are deeply personal. This month, she is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her first kidney transplant — the first of two lifesaving gifts made possible by her own family members. Thanks to living donations from her sister, Maria Rocha, and later her nephew, Maria’s son, Christopher Carbonell, Susana’s journey is a powerful example of how organ donation can transform not just one life, but an entire family.

Born in Bolivia and raised in New York City, Susana was building a career as an accountant while pursuing her master’s degree when her health began to decline.

“I remember telling my husband, Michael, ‘Something’s not right,’” said Susana. “I was always exhausted, and I couldn’t finish a simple walk without sitting down to catch my breath.”

After years of uncertainty, doctors gave Susana life-changing news: her kidneys were functioning at just 20 percent.

“It was a rude awakening,” said Susana. “One moment you’re living your life, and the next, you’re told you need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.”

A Sister’s Gift — and a 20-Year Milestone

As Susana explored her transplant options, her sister, Maria, stepped forward without hesitation to be evaluated as a poten􀀁al living kidney donor. When the results confirmed she was a match, Maria didn’t think twice about giving her sister the gift of life.

“There was no question in my mind,” said Maria. “That’s what family does. Seeing my sister live life to its fullest means everything to me.”

On April 27, 2006, Maria donated one of her kidneys — a decision that would give Susana a new beginning and lead to the milestone she celebrates today.

“The moment I woke up after the transplant, it felt like my whole body came back to life,” said Susana. “I didn’t realize how sick I had been until I felt healthy again. I don’t take one day for granted. Even one extra day would have been a gift — so to be here 20 years later is incredible.”

A Second Chance, A Decade Later

After 10 healthy years, Susana’s transplanted kidney began to fail due to complications.

“I felt heartbroken,” said Susana. “I felt guilty, even though I knew it wasn’t something I caused. My sister had already given me so much.”

As Susana prepared to begin dialysis treatments, her nephew Christopher stepped forward.

“I couldn’t stand the thought of losing her,” said Christopher. “She’s like a second mom to me, and I knew I had to help. If you have the opportunity to save someone you love, you just do it.”

On October 26, 2016, Christopher became Susana’s second living kidney donor, giving her another chance for a healthy life.

“I told him no when he first made the offer,” said Susana. “But he looked at me and said, ‘I need you in my life.’ That always stayed with me.”

A Family Affair

Behind both transplants was a strong support system that Susana describes as a “family affair.” Her husband, Michael Guarino, served as caregiver and constant support, while her mother, Andrea Lira, helped care for both living donors during recovery.

“My husband was our driver, my mom was our chef, and we all took care of each other,” said Susana. “There’s so much more than just the transplant surgery — it really takes a village.”

Turning Gratitude into Advocacy

Now, 20 years after her first transplant, Susana continues to honor her sister and nephew by sharing her story as a volunteer for NJ Sharing Network.

“I carry pictures of Maria and Christopher with me everywhere,” said Susana. “When people tell me I look healthy, I tell them — it’s because of them. They are my donor heroes.”

During Donate Life Month, the family hopes their story inspires others to consider living donation and to register as organ and tissue donors to leave behind a legacy of caring for others.

“Donating didn’t take anything away from my life — it added to it,” said Maria. “If more people understood that, more lives could be saved.”

Susana hopes her 20-year milestone serves as proof of what’s possible.

“This is what organ donation looks like. It’s love, it’s second chances. And if sharing my story helps even one person say ‘yes’ to organ and tissue donation, then it’s all worth it,” said Susana.

To learn more about living kidney donation and deceased organ and tissue donation, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION – Susana Guarino (center) is joined by her sister, Maria Rocha, and her nephew, Maria’s son, Christopher Carbonell — the two family members who each donated a kidney to help save her life. (Photo courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

CLARK, NJ — April is National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation. 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. One organ and tissue donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.

During this time, two New Jersey families are coming together to raise awareness and honor a remarkable bond — one that began with tragedy but continues through the gift of life.

In 2017, Caitlin Nelson, a vibrant 20-year-old, passed away. In the days that followed, an outpouring of love and support surrounded the Nelson family, as many came together to honor Caitlin’s life and the extraordinary person, she was.

Through organ and tissue donation — a decision she had openly shared with her family — Caitlin’s legacy lives on through Brick resident Sonia Carlen, who celebrated the 9th anniversary of her double-lung transplant on April 4.

Together, Sonia and Caitlin’s family share their story to encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors.

A Life of Compassion and a Lasting Legacy

Caitlin was known for her kindness, energy, and commitment to helping others. She was studying social work and dreamed of becoming a pediatric oncology social worker. She dedicated much of her time to service through her church, school, and community. A highlight of this work was her time at Sister Pat’s Kids Camp, where she supported children with cancer and related blood disorders. She also served as a counselor at Camp Sea Stars North, a program dedicated to supporting children from the Newtown and Sandy Hook communities following the 2012 elementary school tragedy. That compassion extended to her strong belief in organ and tissue donation.

“She had told me that if anything ever happened to her, she wanted to donate her organs. She’d say, ‘you can’t take them with you’ and someone else could use them to live on,” said Rosanne Nelson, Caitlin’s mother. “That was who she was — always thinking of others, even in unimaginable circumstances.”

Following her passing, Caitlin’s final act of generosity saved and enhanced the lives of dozens. Through organ donation, she gave the gift of life by donating her heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, and liver. She also donated many bone and tissue grafts.

“Knowing Caitlin’s wish to donate her organs and tissue to help others brings us comfort,” said Rosanne. “Even in our darkest moment, Caitlin gave others hope.”

“My Prayers Were Answered”

At the same time, Sonia Carlen was fighting for her life. In 2015, at just 27 years old, Sonia began experiencing persistent shortness of breath that led to numerous doctor visits before she was ultimately diagnosed with a rare lung disease. Doctors explained that the condition was terminal and gave her a life expectancy of just three to five years.

“To hear that news was devastating,” said Sonia. “I was healthy, I never smoked, and suddenly I was being told I only had a few years to live.”

As her condition declined, she required oxygen around the clock and was placed on the lung transplant waiting list.

“I tried to stay positive,” said Sonia. “My husband, family, and friends were always my strength. I held onto hope every single day.”

That hope became reality thanks to a double-lung transplant on April 4, 2017. Her organ donor was Caitlin.

“I call Caitlin my hero and my angel,” said Sonia. “Because of her generosity and compassion for others, I am alive today. There are no words that can fully express my gratitude.”

A Powerful Bond

In the years since, Sonia and Caitlin’s family have formed a meaningful and lasting connection.

“Meeting Caitlin’s family was one of the most emotional moments of my life,” said Sonia. “They welcomed me with open arms. We share a bond that is incredibly special.”

For Rosanne, seeing Sonia healthy has brought a sense of peace.

“Seeing Sonia live her life is a beautiful reminder of who Caitlin was,” said Rosanne. “It shows us that her spirit and generosity continue to make a difference.”

Inspiring Others During National Donate Life Month

Through their advocacy with NJ Sharing Network, both families are working to raise awareness during Donate Life Month.

“Organ donation gave me a second chance at life,” said Sonia. “I hope our story encourages others to make the selfless decision to give the gift of life.”

Rosanne added, “Registering as an organ and tissue donor is one of the most powerful ways to help others. Caitlin believed that, and we hope others will too.”

As Sonia celebrates her 9-year transplant milestone, their shared story serves as an important reminder: even in loss, one decision can save lives — and create a legacy that lives on forever. To learn more or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Sonia Carlen, a Brick resident and double-lung transplant recipient, is celebrating the 9th anniversary of her lifesaving transplant during Donate Life Month. (Photo courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Caitlin Nelson gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire others. (Photo courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

NEW MILFORD, NJ — April is National Donate Life Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.

For New Milford resident Christine Baldino, Donate Life Month carries deeply personal meaning. In January 2024, Christine’s brother, Ronald Baldino of Fort Lee, passed away unexpectedly. A registered organ and tissue donor, Ron’s final act reflected the generous spirit that defined his life. Through organ and tissue donation, his gifts helped save and enhance the lives of others.

“My brother was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back,” said Christine. “Of course, it made sense that he was a registered organ and tissue donor. That was just who he was – always caring for others.”

Ron was a devoted husband to his wife, Denise, and a proud father to their daughter, Ronni. Family was at the center of his world. He loved carnivals, concerts, shopping trips and spontaneous adventures with his family. As an independent handyman, he built a reputation for being able to fix just about anything. Many admired his craftsmanship, but it was his warmth and enthusiasm that truly set him apart.

In the hours and days after Ron was hospitalized, Christine remained at his bedside, navigating unimaginable grief while witnessing firsthand the compassion of the Holy Name Medical Center and NJ Sharing Network team members.

“The care, the tenderness, and the patience they showed our family was extraordinary. They carried me through the most painful time of my life,” said Christine.

Turning Grief into Something Beautiful

Just days before Ron’s passing, Christine — a textile and mosaic artist for more than 40 years — had begun working on a hand-cut mosaic garden scene. What started as a creative project soon became something far more meaningful.

“I didn’t understand at the time why I felt such urgency to begin the garden piece. It wasn’t planned, it just felt important,” said Christine. “After Ron passed, I began to see the garden differently. It became a place where I could hold my grief and honor his life at the same time.”

The finished piece, now called Ron’s Garden, features a winding pathway leading through arches into a peaceful garden landscape. For Christine, the pathway symbolizes hope, restoration, and eternal life.

“Something meaningful can spring from loss,” said Christine. “One life can continue to bring healing to many others through organ and tissue donation. My brother’s legacy lives on in the people he helped. That brings me peace.”

The original Ron’s Garden mosaic now resides at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence, where it serves as a tribute to Ron’s legacy and to all organ and tissue donors.

A Leap of Faith Inspired by Loss

Ron’s passing also changed the trajectory of Christine’s own life. In December 2024, she made the courageous decision to leave her longtime career in the textile industry and pursue art full time. Today, Christine creates mosaics, paintings, digital artwork, and commissioned legacy portraits.

A Message to the Community

As Donate Life Month is observed across New Jersey this April, Christine hopes her brother’s story inspires others to register as organ and tissue donors and to talk openly with their families about their decision.

“Creating Ron’s Garden reminded me that even in loss, God can grow something meaningful,” said Christine. “My hope is that this piece continues to bring comfort and awareness for years to come. If sharing his story helps even one family find comfort or encourages one person to register as an organ and tissue donor, then his life continues in an even bigger way.”

Community members are encouraged to honor the legacy of all donor heroes by registering as organ and tissue donors. To learn more and register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

To view the Ron’s Garden Special Print Edition and learn more about Christine’s work, visit her shop at
https://www.etsy.com/listing/4460981664/rons-garden-sharing-network-event. Each print purchased during the six-month event window helps support the Sharing
Network Foundation while continuing Ron’s legacy of generosity.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Ronald Baldino and his sister Christine Baldino (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – (Bottom Right) Ronald Baldino with his wife Denise LeBrun and their daughter Ronni Baldino (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3 – Ron’s Garden, a hand-cut mosaic scene created by Christine Baldino of Christine Baldino Art (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(SPARTA, N.J.) – April 1 is Donate Life Living Donor Day, a celebration during National Donate Life Month that honors living organ and tissue donors for saving and healing lives. In 2024, more than 7,000 people made the decision to give one of their kidneys or a part of their liver to someone waiting for a second chance at life. According to the National Kidney Foundation, nearly 90,000 people are currently waiting for a lifesaving kidney transplant. For Gary Kawka of Sparta, that statistic once felt very personal.

Nine years ago, Gary received a lifesaving kidney transplant after his kidney function declined due to Alport syndrome, a hereditary condition that affects kidney health. Fortunately, he didn’t have to wait years on the transplant list thanks to the extraordinary generosity of a friend — Shawn Hoppe of Riverdale.

Today, Gary continues to live an active life with his wife, Carolyn, celebrating both his transplant anniversary and the special bond he shares with Shawn.

“Shawn is an amazing person,” said Gary. “She never wavered through the entire process. She simply wanted to do something good for someone else, and because of that, I’m here today living a full life.”

A Friendship Forged Through Running

Gary and Shawn first met through Team in Training, a program that raises funds for blood cancer research through endurance events. Gary had become involved with the organization following the heartbreaking loss of his son, Mathew, who passed away from non-Hodgkin lymphoma at age 18 in 2005.

In the years that followed, Gary channeled his grief into advocacy and fundraising, completing numerous marathons and raising more than $230,000 for the Blood Cancer United’s Team in Training. He established the moto “We must never quit!”—a rallying cry that
participants now chant before every session to honor the fight and to never quit until there’s a cure. He also served as a running coach, inspiring many participants — including Shawn.

“When Gary shared that he needed a kidney, I didn’t know much about living donation. But he was already doing so many incredible things to help others, and I thought, ‘If I can help give him more years to keep doing that, why not?’” said Shawn.

After learning she was a compatible donor, Shawn decided to reveal the news in a memorable way. The two were traveling to Washington, D.C. with teammates to run the Marine Corps Marathon when Shawn handed Gary what looked like a birthday card. Inside was a message that changed everything.

“I told him on the train that I was a match and that he could have my kidney,” said Shawn. “Everyone from our team was there, and it was a really special moment.”

Shawn ran her first marathon that weekend with Gary by her side. The successful transplant took place in March 2017, giving Gary the second chance at life he needed.

Back on the Road — and Still Running

During recovery, Gary remained determined to return to the activity he loves. Just seven months after his transplant, he completed his first marathon post-surgery. Since then, Gary has gone on to finish 20 marathons with his transplanted kidney.

“I started walking laps in the hospital the day after surgery,” said Gary. “Running has always been part of my life, and getting back to it was a huge milestone for me.”

Today, Gary enjoys spending time with his wife Carolyn and visits his daughter Meghan and her family in the United Kingdom frequently— including his two young grandsons.

For Shawn, the experience of living kidney donation was far less daunting than many people might expect. Now 49, Shawn works for a pharmaceutical company and enjoys traveling, attending concerts and baseball games with her husband Jason. The couple is even working toward a fun goal — visiting all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums together.

“The surgery went smoothly, and I forget sometimes that I only have one kidney. I’ve been perfectly healthy,” said Shawn.

A Bond That Continues

While the transplant happened nearly a decade ago, the connection between Gary and Shawn remains strong. Every month, Gary sends Shawn a message celebrating the milestone they share.

“He writes to me every month on the 28th and says, ‘Happy kidney-versary,’” said Shawn with a laugh. “We’re over 100 months now. He hasn’t missed one.”

Both Gary and Shawn now advocate for NJ Sharing Network and hope their story encourages others to learn more about living dona􀀁on and the power of registering as an organ and tissue donor.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. One deceased organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.

National Donate Life Month, observed each April, raises awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation, honors the generosity of donors, and celebrates the lives they save. NJ Sharing Network leads community initiatives and shares inspiring stories of families touched by donation. For more information, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org/DLM.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Gary Kawka (left) and Shawn Hoppe prepare for kidney transplant surgery in March 2017. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Shawn Hoppe (left) and Gary Kawka get set to participate in a running event. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)