Author: Joseph Yaccarino

(HOPATCONG, NJ) – This Mother’s Day, Geri Cranmer of Hopatcong, NJ, is finding strength and purpose by honoring her beloved son, Sean Thomas Cranmer, whose selfless gift of organ and tissue donation continues to save and enhance lives across the country.

Although Sean passed away tragically on July 28, 2024, at just 22 years old, his legacy lives on in the hearts of his loved ones – and in the lives of the many people he helped through donation. Geri is sharing Sean’s story to raise awareness about NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission and to inspire others to give the gift of life by registering as organ and tissue donors.

“Sean was full of faith, compassion, and love,” said Geri. “The miracle of Sean and the life he gave to his organ and tissue recipients gives me comfort and strength through this difficult time. His spirit is so strong that his time on Earth continues to have a ripple effect on others. If I can inspire others by spreading his love, light, and sharing his story, I will do so in any way I can.”

Through his decision to register as an organ and tissue donor, Sean gave the gift of life to an 18-year-old man in Texas, two men in their 40s from Georgia and Illinois, a man in his 60s from Arizona, and a 70-year-old woman in Louisiana. He also enhanced the lives of many others through eye and tissue donation.

Geri continues to honor Sean by speaking about donation, sharing his story, and leaving small figurines of Jesus with a message that “Sean would have loved them to have a little Jesus in their lives.”

“These gestures have touched so many,” said Geri. “People reach out to me, often in tears, saying how much Sean’s story has impacted their lives. Sean’s love and light continues to spread throughout the world.”

Sean’s family and loved ones remember Sean as a man of strong faith and deep compassion. As one of his close friends shared, “He taught people how to love and be loved.” Sean lived a full and adventurous life, fulfilling all his dreams. He traveled the world, visiting Thailand, Turkey, Egypt, and Japan. While in Japan, he met an elderly man who told him, “It was worth living to be able to talk to you.”

Sean eventually drove his van to Louisiana to pursue his passion for commercial diving. In his journal, he wrote that he knew “God had a plan for him.” He was working toward becoming a Dive Medic with the goal of “saving at least one life.”

Now, through the eyes of a grieving mother, Sean’s dream lives on in the most meaningful way.

“The kindness and care we have received from NJ Sharing Network and the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency (LOPA) have given our family tremendous comfort and support,” said Geri. “They have been so understanding and help me honor my son in the best way possible.”

Sean’s family has also established scholarship funds to help others pursue their dreams, ensuring that his passion for adventure and helping others will continue to inspire future generations.

This Mother’s Day, NJ Sharing Network celebrates all donor moms like Geri who, even in the face of unthinkable loss, turn their grief into hope for others.

“As a mom, Geri understands how precious every moment is. Thanks to her son Sean’s gifts, other moms are celebrating Mother’s Day with their sons by their side and families are creating new memories together. It’s a beautiful reminder of how the gift can bring life, hope, and healing to so many,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.

While the opportunity to give the gift of life is rare, it is truly precious. Less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to become an organ donor, which highlights the importance of encouraging more people to register as donors. Every new donor registration brings hope, helping to save and enhance lives.

To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Geri Cranmer holding a photo of her son, Sean Cranmer (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Sean Cranmer (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3  – Sean Cranmer (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #4 – The Cranmer Family (l-r) Jason, Thomas, Geri, Sean, and James.

Ocean Township, NJ – 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, the nonprofit organization responsible for organ and tissue recovery in New Jersey, leads community initiatives and shares inspiring stories of families touched by donation. For more information, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org/DLM.

“National Donate Life Month is a time to honor the lasting legacies of organ and tissue donors,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network. “In New Jersey, we celebrate those who gave the gift of life, offer hope to those still waiting, and work year-round to inspire others to register as donors.”

During National Donate Life Month, NJ Sharing Network honors the memory of all organ and tissue donors and highlights the story of Mark Angelo Valenzano, a devoted brother, friend, and community member whose decision to be an organ donor gave the ultimate gift of life to others – including a family friend in need of a life-saving kidney transplant.

Mark, 57, of Ocean Township, passed away on May 25, 2022, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Known for his adventurous spirit, warm heart, and sense of humor, Mark made a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was passionate about giving back, volunteering at events like the Jersey Shore Beach Cleanup and the Asbury Park Santa Run, and supporting causes like the Light of Day Foundation, which raises awareness for Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and PSP.

Now, his giving spirit continues through his incredible legacy of organ donation. In a rare and deeply personal moment, Mark’s family was able to direct one of his kidneys to be donated to Frank Klimecki, 56, of Galloway Township, NJ, a family friend in need of a transplant.

“The day before the recovery of Mark’s organs, I had a thought and almost didn’t make the call,” said Mark’s sister, Linda Valenzano. “I wasn’t sure if it was even possible, but something told me I had to ask if we could donate one of Mark’s kidneys to a friend of our cousin who had been waiting for a transplant. I felt an overwhelming sense of relief and gratitude when I was told, ‘Yes, absolutely.’ Even in our grief, my sister Laura and I knew Mark’s kindness and generosity would live on. At that late hour, everything miraculously fell into place. Knowing that Mark was able to help someone close to our family has brought us incredible comfort. It’s exactly the kind of person he was – always looking out for others, even beyond his time here with us.”

For Frank Klimecki, the call came at an unexpected moment.

“I was on my way home from dialysis when I got a call from Darren Menditto, Mark’s cousin,” said Frank. “I live in a rural area and almost never get service where I was, but somehow, the call came through. Darren told me that Mark had passed and that if I was a match, his family wanted me to have the first kidney. I was shocked. It felt like fate.”

The very next day, Frank received a call from his transplant coordinator confirming that testing would begin to see if he was a match. Within 48 hours, he was preparing for transplant surgery at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. After six hours of surgery, Frank woke up in the ICU, filled with gratitude and hope.

“I prayed for a long time for this day, and it was finally here,” said Frank. “Mark’s gift gave me a second chance at life.”

Since his transplant, Frank has continued doing what he loves – racing and volunteering in BMX, a sport he has dedicated over 42 years to. Just six months after his transplant, he competed at the USABMX Grand Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma, during Thanksgiving weekend, an event that left his fellow racers in awe.

“Mark’s family listened to a calling from above, and because of them, I’m still here today. I will never stop being grateful. Linda has become an incredible friend to me since the transplant. This journey has changed my life in every way,” said Frank.

For Mark’s family, knowing that his decision to be an organ donor has been a source of comfort. In addition to his donated kidney, Mark’s liver and pancreas were also recovered to help save lives.

“Mark was the kind of person who made friends everywhere he went,” said Linda. “He lived life to the fullest and knowing that his light continues to shine in others brings us peace.”

During National Donate Life Month, Mark’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of organ and tissue donation. His legacy is proof that one selfless decision can change countless lives.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. While the opportunity to give the gift of life is rare, it’s a truly precious one. Less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to become an organ donor, which highlights the importance of encouraging more people to register as donors. Every new donor registration brings hope, helping to save and enhance lives.

To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Mark Valenzano (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Mark Valenzano (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3 – (Left-to-Right) Dr. Darren Menditto, Andrea Menditto, Mark Valenzano, Laura Valenzano, and Linda Valenzano (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #4 – Frank Klimecki (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(Wyckoff, NJ) – April 2, 2025, marks Donate Life Living Donor Day, a special observance during National Donate Life Month dedicated to honoring the selfless individuals who have given the gift of life through living organ and tissue donation. In 2024 alone, more than 7,000 people made the decision to donate a kidney or a portion of their liver to someone in need.

For Jorge Losch of Wyckoff, NJ, 65, Donate Life Living Donor Day is a time of deep reflection and celebration. As a living kidney donor, Jorge’s altruistic act not only changed one life but also sparked a chain reaction, saving multiple others. Now, he is sharing his journey to inspire others to consider becoming living donors and to encourage everyone to register as organ and tissue donors to save and enhance lives after passing. To learn more about both living and deceased organ donation, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

Jorge’s story is one of extraordinary generosity. On July 6, 2022, just two days after running a 5K race in Glen Rock, he underwent successful surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center – not for his own health, but to altruistically donate a kidney to a stranger in need.

“My kidney donation began a paired kidney exchange, ultimately helping eight people in several states receive the lifesaving transplants they desperately needed,” said Jorge.

A paired kidney exchange is a process that facilitates transplants for individuals who are unable to donate their kidneys directly to their intended recipients, often due to medical incompatibilities. In a paired kidney exchange, living donors who are not compatible with their intended recipient are matched with other incompatible donor-recipient pairs to create a chain of transplants. This enables each recipient to receive a compatible kidney from another donor in the exchange, ultimately increasing the number of successful transplants.

Because Jorge’s donation was altruistic, privacy policies prevented him from knowing many details about his kidney recipient. However, he does know that his kidney went to a 50-year-old woman in Maryland. Most importantly, he knows that his kidney began functioning immediately and her recovery had begun.

“I may never meet her but knowing that my kidney gave her a second chance at life is enough for me,” said Jorge.

Jorge’s decision to donate was deeply personal. His wife, Sara, had once attempted to become a living kidney donor but was unable to do it for medical reasons. Additionally, Jorge had seen firsthand the lifesaving impact of organ donation and transplantation through his father-in-law and the daughter of a childhood friend, both of whom received liver transplants.

“These experiences made me realize it was time to do something beyond myself – something that could truly change someone’s life,” said Jorge. “I received amazing support and encouragement throughout the process from my wife Sara, our children Jessie and Gabby, and our daughter-in-law Ariel.”

Today, Jorge continues to embrace his passion for running, proving that living kidney donors can go on to live full, active lives. Just seven weeks after his donation, he ran another 5K race – his first as a “one-kidney athlete.”

“I finished in 23 minutes and 37 seconds – third place in my age group. It was proof that you can donate a kidney and still do what you love,” said Jorge.

Jorge is now looking forward to participating in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life events, which bring together thousands of donor families, transplant recipients, and supporters to honor the gift of life.

“The 5K Celebration of Life is an incredible event that truly showcases the power of organ donation,” said Jorge. “It’s a time to celebrate those who have given the gift of life and to support those who are still waiting. I can’t wait to be there and encourage others to join the cause.”

The 5K Celebration of Life events will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, in Ocean Grove, NJ, and Sunday, June 8, 2025, in New Providence, NJ. Proceeds support the Sharing Network Foundation. For more information or to sign up, visit  www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K

NJ Sharing Network urges everyone to learn more about both living and deceased organ donation and to take action today. For more information, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

February 14 is a day for sharing the love in New Jersey – not just because it’s Valentine’s Day, but also because it marks National Donor Day, a time dedicated to spreading awareness and education about organ and tissue donation.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One deceased organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. However, 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, less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to be an organ donor. This underscores the pressing need for more registered donors.

NJ Sharing Network and its local hospital partners are committed to raising awareness by sharing the incredible stories of those touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

“Every story is a testament to the generosity of organ and tissue donors and the renewed hope they bring to those in need,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network. “We honor the legacies of our selfless donors to inspire more people to register as donors and bring comfort to families who have given the ultimate gift.”

A Local Story of Hope and Love

Lisa Vecchione of Springfield, NJ, felt her life slipping away. Ten years of struggling with a failing heart had left her weak and desperate for a miracle. On June 20, 2022, Lisa’s prayers were answered in the form of a selfless act of an organ donor — a new heart, beating with the promise of life.

The donated heart belonged to Michael J. Canada, a father of three from Woburn, Massachusetts, whose untimely passing gave Lisa a second chance to live. But what Lisa didn’t expect was how her life would intertwine with Michael’s loving family in the most beautiful way.

Michael was a man who filled every room with his warmth and charisma. Known for his love of conversation and connection, he had a way of making everyone feel seen. His mother, Jessica Canada, fondly recalled how their family would often be late to events and activities because Michael simply couldn’t stop talking to people and making friends.

“After meeting Michael for the first time, you became his friend for life within five minutes,” said Jessica. “He was always so upbeat and the kind of person who would do anything to help others.”

Michael was also well-known in his community as a skilled barber, who would volunteer his time cutting hair for children in the neighborhood who were unable to afford a haircut. He felt tremendous satisfaction seeing the biggest smiles on their faces when they saw the finished product.

“Michael was a champion for the underdog,” said Joan Bello, Michael’s grandmother. “He delivered many meals to the homeless in the Lowell and the Boston area. There was rarely a person Michael met who he didn’t help in some way.”

During Michael’s final days in the hospital, his family made the decision for Michael to give the gift of life to others as an organ donor, a fitting tribute and reflection of his generous spirit. Through his gifts, not only was Lisa given a new heart, but his kidneys also went on to save the lives of two men.

For his family, knowing that Michael’s life was continuing to help others brought a measure of solace. Yet, the true depth of healing came during an extraordinary meeting in NJ Sharing Network’s Meditation Garden — a place dedicated to honoring donors and celebrating life.

When Lisa met Jessica, Jaliesa Andrade, and Michael’s two daughters, Audriana and Aaliyah, the connection was immediate and heartfelt. Within minutes, the walls of uncertainty melted away, replaced by laughter, tears, and love.

Audriana and Aaliyah felt so comfortable with Lisa that they asked if they could braid her hair.

“That, to me, was the most amazing moment,” Lisa said. “To feel that close within half an hour — it was something I’ll never forget. I couldn’t ask for a better donor family because they’re just absolutely amazing people. Michael didn’t just provide me with a heart. He gave me children to love.”

Unable to have children of her own, Lisa now refers to Michael’s children as her “heart children,” and they call her their “heart mom.”

When it was Jaliesa’s turn to listen to Michael’s heart beating inside Lisa, an extraordinary moment unfolded. Lisa noticed her heartbeat seemed to quicken, almost as if it recognized Jaliesa’s presence.

“I could feel it beating harder when she leaned in,” Lisa recalled.

Reflecting on the experience, Jaliesa said, “When we arrived at NJ Sharing Network, all my emotions came rushing in. But once I hugged Lisa, I felt a sense of peace come over me. It felt like I already knew her because of our phone calls and texts. That connection became even stronger in person.”

The families have remained close, sharing many phone calls and texts, milestones, and more memories together. Jessica sees Lisa as a living connection to her son.

“It’s like having a piece of Michael still here,” she said. “When Lisa talks about him or does something that reminds me of him, it feels like he’s with us.”

For Lisa, the journey ahead is about carrying Michael’s legacy forward. “It’s not just about living. It’s about loving the family he gave me and honoring the life he lived. I’m so blessed by God,” she said.

In the NJSN Meditation Garden that day, two families became one, bound by love, gratitude, and the enduring legacy of a man who gave the ultimate gift. To learn more about organ and tissue donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO 1 – (Second from right) Lisa Vecchione meets loved ones of her heart donor Michael Canada at NJ Sharing Network in New Providence, NJ. Standing with Lisa are (l-r) Audriana Andrade, Aaliyah Canada, Jaliesa Andrade, and Jessica Canada. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO 2 – Audriana Andrade listens to Michael Canada’s donated heart beat inside Lisa Vecchione during their meeting at NJ Sharing Network in New Providence, NJ. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

NJ Sharing Network’s Wrapped in Love program continues to touch hearts and provide solace to families of organ and tissue donors. In 2024, volunteers handcrafted 883 lap blankets and shawls, each a tangible expression of love, compassion, and support for grieving families.

“These thoughtful gifts offer much-needed comfort during difficult times for our organ and tissue donor families,” said Kelly Bonventre, Assistant Director of Community Services at NJ Sharing Network. “It is truly inspiring to witness the dedication of our volunteers and the outpouring of love they bring to our lifesaving mission.”

The Wrapped in Love program unites volunteers who generously dedicate their time and talents to crafting these heartfelt items. Blankets and shawls are sent to families approximately two years after their loved one’s passing, serving as a meaningful reminder that they are cared for and supported long after the donation.

Barbara Mielnicki of Keyport, mother of organ donor Vincent, expressed her gratitude in a note to the Wrapped in Love volunteers: “The blanket you knitted is beautiful. Words cannot describe how happy you made me. You are all compassionate, caring, and loving people. I will call you, my family.”

Join the Movement

NJ Sharing Network invites community members of all skill levels to participate in the Wrapped in Love program. Whether knitting, crocheting, or assisting with packaging and delivery, everyone can contribute to this impactful initiative and make a difference for donor families. For more information about Wrapped in Love and how to get involved, contact Iveth Gonzales at IGonzales@njsharingnetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION – Wrapped in Love volunteers knit and crochet blankets and shawls at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence, NJ. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

NJ Sharing Network reports 743 organs were transplanted marking six consecutive years of record growth.

(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated nonprofit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, announced the number of deceased organ donors (297) and organs transplanted (743) in a single year reached all-time highs in 2024. These figures reflect a 14% increase in organ donors and a 4% rise in organs transplanted compared to 2023. This is the sixth consecutive year NJ Sharing Network has reported new organ donation records, underscoring a clear trend of more people saying ‘YES’ in support for organ and tissue donation in the Garden State.

“Every organ and tissue donation represents a story of generosity and hope,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network. “This milestone reflects the extraordinary selflessness of New Jersey’s organ and tissue donors and their families, showcasing the generous spirit that defines our state. Their legacies live on through the lives they have touched and the gifts they have given. We remain united in our mission, working alongside hospital partners, volunteers, and community members to bring comfort to donor families and hope to those awaiting lifesaving transplants.”

In 2024, the 743 organs transplanted included 388 kidneys, 193 livers, 75 hearts, 66 lungs, 18 pancreata, and 3 intestines. The 388 kidneys transplanted marked an all-time high for NJ Sharing Network. Cooper University Hospital in Camden had 29 organ donors and 89 organs recovered for transplant, the most of any hospital in New Jersey.

Additionally, 663 tissue donors improved the quality of life for individuals in need, a 20% increase from 2023. Tissue donations include corneas, heart valves, skin grafts, bone grafts, saphenous veins, and tendons. One deceased organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 people.

Headquartered in New Providence, NJ Sharing Network partners with 54 local hospitals to bring hope to nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant, while also contributing to the national effort to support over 100,000 individuals on the U.S. transplant waiting list. With over three million New Jerseyans registered as organ and tissue donors, NJ Sharing Network is consistently ranked among the top-performing organ procurement organizations (OPOs) in the nation. Recently honored as NJBIZ’s 2024 Nonprofit Business of the Year and recognized as one of New Jersey’s “Best Places to Work” for seven consecutive years, NJ Sharing Network continues to foster an environment of innovation, dedication, and mission-driven collaboration.

(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network (NJSN), the federally designated nonprofit organization responsible for saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, has received a significant boost for its lifesaving mission with a generous $50,000 grant from KBC Advisors (KBC) to the Sharing Network Foundation.

As part of its “Big Give” program, KBC awards a $50,000 grant annually to a KBC employee’s charity of choice, selected through an application and committee review process. KBC’s contribution to the Sharing Network Foundation will support clinical advancements, family support initiatives, and public awareness and education about the benefits of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

“We are honored to receive this generous funding through KBC’s Big Give program,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation. “KBC, along with our dedicated community partners and supporters, is a driving force behind our efforts to care for organ and tissue donor families and enrich the lives of transplant recipients, allowing them to share more special moments with their loved ones.”

Cait English, a Brokerage Professional at KBC, was deeply moved to nominate the Sharing Network Foundation because of her personal connection to its mission. In 2011, while still a high school student, she experienced the heartbreaking loss of a childhood friend who had selflessly registered as an organ donor just months before his passing. English’s bond with the organization grew even stronger in 2016 with the sudden loss of her mother-in-law, who was also a registered organ donor. Inspired by these experiences, English and her friends and family have collectively raised more than $40,000 in their memory and actively participate each year in NJSN’s 5K Celebration of Life.

“KBC Advisors’ contribution will honor the legacy of sacrifice and service to others that organ donors leave behind,” said English. “NJ Sharing Network has helped me turn my grief into gratitude, and my hope is that this grant will provide others with the same opportunity to find healing and hope.”

One organ and tissue donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. However, 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, less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to be an organ donor. To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION

Pictured here are (left-to-right) Michael McGee; Cait English, KBC Brokerage Professional; Janet Zanetich, Manager of Philanthropy, Sharing Network Foundation; and Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation. (PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(Pasadena, CA) – On New Years Day, heart and tissue transplant recipient Michael Rizzo of Upper Saddle River, NJ, participated in the world’s most visible campaign to inspire organ and tissue donation. Rizzo proudly served as a float rider on OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade® float in Pasadena, CA. His participation was sponsored by the Sharing Network Foundation and NJ Sharing Network’s tissue partner, MTF Biologics.

“Being part of the Rose Parade was an extraordinary opportunity to honor my organ and tissue donors and share the lifesaving impact of their generosity,” said Rizzo. “It was humbling to meet so many people from throughout our nation whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation.”

ABOUT MICHAEL RIZZO
Michael Rizzo has dedicated his life to serving others as both a paramedic and police officer. His commitment to public service faced a significant challenge two decades ago when a devastating arm fracture threatened to end his career. However, thanks to the remarkable generosity of a tissue donor, Rizzo’s arm was successfully reconstructed, allowing him to continue his vital work of saving and protecting lives.

Years later, Rizzo’s journey took another unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition. This time, an organ donor provided the lifeline he needed. A successful heart transplant gave Rizzo a second chance at life.

Rizzo volunteers his time and energy to support NJ Sharing Network and MTF Biologics. His personal experiences with both organ and tissue transplants have fueled his passionate advocacy for organ and tissue donation. He inspires others through his dynamic speaking presentations at community events to raise awareness. He also goes above and beyond to support the Sharing Network Foundation’s 5K Celebration of Life. His team, “The Beat Lives On,” was formed by family and friends to celebrate his life and offer hope to those on the transplant waiting list.

Rizzo lives in Upper Saddle River, NJ, with his longtime partner, Dr. Edward Hahn, Jr. His story is a powerful testament to the impact of both organ and tissue donation, and he vows to continue using his voice and platform to raise awareness.

ABOUT ONELEGACY’S DONATE LIFE ROSE PARADE® FLOAT For 22 years, OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade® float has inspired people worldwide to save and heal lives with the powerful message of organ and tissue donation. Transplant recipients from around the nation (including Michael Rizzo) will ride on the float, and living donors will walk alongside it. Memorial floragraphs honoring organ and tissue donor heroes will also be displayed on the float. The floragraphs replicate photographs and are made entirely of flowers, seeds, and organic materials.

ABOUT NJ SHARING NETWORK
NJ Sharing Network is a federally designated nonprofit organization dedicated to saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue. Headquartered in New Providence, NJ, NJ Sharing Network partners with 54 local hospitals to bring hope to nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant, while also contributing to the national effort to support over 100,000 individuals on the U.S. transplant waiting list. With over three million New Jerseyans registered as organ and tissue donors, the organization has reported organ donation records for five consecutive years. NJ Sharing Network is consistently ranked among the top-performing organ procurement organizations (OPOs) in the nation and was honored as NJBIZ’s 2024 Nonprofit Business of the Year. It has also been recognized as one of New Jersey’s ‘Best Places to Work’ for seven consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to fostering an innovative and mission-driven workplace. To learn more, get involved, or 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 committed 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.

ABOUT MTF BIOLOGICS
MTF Biologics is a global non-profit organization that saves and heals lives by honoring donated gifts, serving patients and advancing science. They provide unmatched service, resources, and expertise to donors and their loved ones who give the gift of donation, people who depend on tissue and organ transplants, healthcare providers, and clinicians and scientists. The International Institute for the Advancement of Medicine (IIAM), a Division of MTF Biologics, honors donors of non-transplantable organs by providing their gifts to the medical research community to combat and cure diseases. Statline, also a Division of MTF Biologics, provides specialized communications and technology expertise to organ, tissue, and eye procurement organizations, as well as the hospitals and patients that they serve. Its sister organization, Deutsches Institute for Zell-und Gewebeersatz – DIZG (The German Institute for Cell and Tissue Transplantation) expands its reach to patients across the globe. For more information, visit www.mtfbiologics.org.

(North Plainfield, NJ) – North Plainfield High School (NPHS) received Donate Life America’s (DLA) prestigious 2024 Excellence in Youth Education Award for its outstanding efforts in raising awareness about the importance of saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Pictured here with the award are (from left) Sean Dowling, NPHS Athletic Director; Josephine Curcio, NPHS teacher; Ametra Burton, Community Services Manager, NJ Sharing Network; and Joseph Krouse, NPHS Principal (Photo Credit: Courtesy of North Plainfield School District).

NPHS incorporated a “Donate Life Unit” within its 9^th Grade Health Education course curriculum. This comprehensive two-week unit reached over 250 students this past year, and it is taught in both English and Spanish to meet the diverse language needs of NPHS’s multicultural student population. The “Donate Life Unit” employs a variety of creative and engaging strategies to ensure that students are not passive learners but active participants in their learning journey. Lessons include passionate group discussions and structured debates about what it means to become an organ and tissue donor. Creative and fun elements, such as poster and t-shirt design contests, also reinforce what students learn and allow them to express their understanding in innovative ways. The unit concludes with a bi-lingual presentation by NJ Sharing Network’s public education team.