Author: Ryan Touhey

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

(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.”

Según la Red Unida para el Intercambio de Órganos (UNOS) y la Red de Intercambio de Nueva Jersey, más de 100 000 estadounidenses —entre ellos, casi 4000 residentes de Nueva Jersey— esperan actualmente un trasplante de órganos que les salve la vida. Para obtener más información sobre la donación de órganos y tejidos o para registrarse como donante, visite 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)

(Photo Credits: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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Paramus Resident Honors Legacy This Father’s Day by Raising Awareness About Organ and Tissue Donation

(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)

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Haskell Father and Son Raise Awareness Six Years After Lifesaving Kidney Donation

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.

Two men pose for a photo at a party, with gold balloons in the background and one man touching the other's chest for a friendly pose on the left.
Smiling man sits on wooden steps with hands pressed together in a prayer pose, wearing a black long-sleeve shirt and camo pants.

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)

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Un vecino de Saddle River celebra un aniversario emblemático de su trasplante de hígado

(SADDLE RIVER, N.J.) — Jessica Zampieri, residente en Saddle River, celebrará el 12 de junio de 2026 el 15.º aniversario del trasplante de hígado que le salvó la vida, un hito que fue posible gracias a la generosidad de un donante de órganos, después de que ella sufriera una insuficiencia hepática aguda y necesitara urgentemente un trasplante para sobrevivir.

Hoy en día, Jessica es esposa, madre de dos niños, una profesional de éxito, escritora y una apasionada defensora de NJ Sharing Network: una prueba viviente del poder salvador de los trasplantes y del impacto duradero que tienen los donantes de órganos y tejidos y sus familias.

«Simplemente estoy agradecida de estar aquí», dijo Jessica. «Cada día lo siento como un regalo, porque sé lo cerca que estuve de perder la vida. Mi donante de órganos me dio tiempo: tiempo para enamorarme, ser madre, formar una familia y vivir todos esos momentos que antes pensaba que nunca tendría. Por eso la donación de órganos y tejidos es tan importante para mí. Saber que mi experiencia podría motivar aunque solo sea a una persona a registrarse como donante hace que compartir mi historia merezca totalmente la pena».

En 2011, Jessica era una joven sana y activa que vivía en Ohio, trabajaba a tiempo completo y se dedicaba al deporte y al bienestar cuando empezaron a aparecerle síntomas inexplicables. Con el tiempo, empezó a sufrir una fatiga extrema y, finalmente, se desmayó en el trabajo. Los médicos descubrieron que sus niveles de enzimas hepáticas estaban peligrosamente elevados y, en cuestión de días, su estado se deterioró rápidamente. La ingresaron de urgencia en el hospital y, finalmente, la trasladaron a la unidad de trasplantes, donde los médicos le comunicaron que necesitaba urgentemente un trasplante de hígado para sobrevivir.

En junio de 2011, pasó a ocupar el primer puesto en la lista nacional de espera de trasplantes. Apenas unos días después, un donante de órganos fallecido de 18 años, procedente de Ohio, le dio una segunda oportunidad de vivir.

«A menudo pienso en mi donante y en su familia», dijo Jessica. «No hay palabras suficientes para expresar la gratitud que siento por el regalo que me hicieron. Gracias a su generosidad, aquí estoy, criando a mis hijos y viviendo una vida plena».

Aunque su recuperación se vio complicada por algunas complicaciones adicionales y una segunda intervención quirúrgica de urgencia tras el trasplante, Jessica no se rindió. En cuestión de meses, volvió al trabajo y, más tarde, se trasladó a Nueva York para seguir desarrollando su carrera y aprovechar lo que ella describe como su «segunda oportunidad en la vida».

Poco después, conoció a su futuro marido, Michael. La pareja acaba de celebrar su décimo aniversario de boda y está criando a sus dos hijos, Robbie y Paulie. Jessica también ha plasmado su experiencia con el trasplante en un libro escrito para rendir homenaje a su donante, conservar su historia y animar a otras personas a inscribirse como donantes de órganos y tejidos.

«Cuando echo la vista atrás y pienso en todo lo que ha pasado, me doy cuenta de lo rápido que puede cambiar la vida. Esa perspectiva ha marcado mi forma de vivir y de afrontar cada oportunidad que se me ha presentado», afirmó Jessica. «A lo largo de los años, he conocido a muchísima gente cuyas vidas se han visto afectadas por la donación y el trasplante de órganos y tejidos. Es una comunidad unida por la resiliencia y por la conciencia de lo preciosa que es realmente la vida».

Según la Red Unida para el Intercambio de Órganos (UNOS) y la Red de Intercambio de Nueva Jersey, más de 100 000 estadounidenses —entre ellos, casi 4000 residentes de Nueva Jersey— esperan actualmente un trasplante de órganos que les salve la vida. Para obtener más información sobre la donación de órganos y tejidos o para registrarse como donante, visite www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

FOTO 1 – Jessica y el Dr. Michael Zampieri con sus hijos, Robbie y Paulie (Crédito de la foto: Cortesía de NJ Sharing Network)

FOTO 2 – Jessica y el Dr. Michael Zampieri (Crédito de la foto: Cortesía de NJ Sharing Network)

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Debbie Prince, nombrada presidenta del Consejo de Administración de la Fundación 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.

Según la Red Unida para el Intercambio de Órganos (UNOS) y la Red de Intercambio de Nueva Jersey, más de 100 000 estadounidenses —entre ellos, casi 4000 residentes de Nueva Jersey— esperan actualmente un trasplante de órganos que les salve la vida. Para obtener más información sobre la donación de órganos y tejidos o para registrarse como donante, visite 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)

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NJ Sharing Network rinde homenaje a los voluntarios y a los socios comunitarios

(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated nonprofit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue in New Jersey, recently honored several local residents and organizations for their exceptional volunteer service during its 2026 Volunteer Appreciation Reception, held at its headquarters in New Providence.

“Every day, our volunteers turn compassion into action,” said Ametra Burton, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at NJ Sharing Network. “They build vital bridges between our mission and the communities we serve. Their dedication inspires people to register as organ and tissue donors and ultimately helps save lives.”

The following Volunteer Recognition Awards were presented during the event:

• Community Hero Awards – This year’s awards were presented to LaVise McCray of Jersey City and Janice Campbell of West Orange for using their creativity and compassion to inspire others to say “yes” to organ and tissue donation. LaVise, a retired Jersey City public school teacher, said she is “paying it forward” after her life was saved when she received a lifesaving kidney transplant. Janice is a well-known community advocate who became heavily involved with NJ Sharing Network after her daughter, Dr. Jamila Irons-Johnson, passed away in 2013 and became an organ donor.

• Youth Volunteer of the Year – This year’s award was presented to Alex Chomiak of New Providence for his outstanding efforts in raising awareness about organ and tissue donation at New Providence High School and mobilizing his fellow classmates to volunteer with NJ Sharing Network.

• Media Champion Award – This year’s award was presented to Bobbie Peer, Publisher of TAPinto Berkeley Heights and TAPinto New Providence, for her consistent and compassionate storytelling highlighting the impact of organ and tissue donation. Bobbie’s news coverage has amplified the voices of local donor families and transplant recipients, helping educate the public about organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

• Community Partner Award – This year’s award was presented to Iris House in Plainfield, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives through comprehensive support, prevention, and education services for women, families, and underserved communities affected by HIV/AIDS and other health disparities. Iris House was honored for its impactful collaboration and continued support of NJ Sharing Network’s public education efforts.

• Jim Rhatican Legacy Award – This year’s award was presented to Jenny Godnick of Hightstown for continuing the legacy of longtime volunteer Jim Rhatican, a liver transplant recipient who inspired thousands of students through NJ Sharing Network’s High School Heroes Program. Jenny is a living kidney donor who was recognized for her efforts in speaking to high school students throughout the state about the importance of organ and tissue donation while sharing her personal experience.

• Wrapped In Love Volunteer of the Year – This year’s award was presented to Jo Facciolli of Lacey in recognition of the countless hours to crochet and knit beautiful shawls and lap blankets for organ and tissue donor families. Through NJ Sharing Network’s Wrapped in Love program, volunteers create handmade pieces that provide warmth, comfort, and a lasting expression of love serving as powerful reminders that donors are forever honored and their families are forever supported.

NJ Sharing Network is a federally designated nonprofit organization committed to saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue. Headquartered in New Providence, NJ Sharing Network partners with 54 local hospitals to give hope to nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents awaiting lifesaving organ transplants, while also supporting the national effort to help more than 100,000 people on the U.S. transplant waiting list. With more than three million New Jerseyans registered as organ and tissue donors, NJ Sharing Network is recognized as one of the nation’s leading organ procurement organizations (OPOs). In 2025, New Jersey donors made possible a record 2,026 organ, cornea, and tissue donations — the highest combined total in the organization’s history.

To learn more, get involved, or register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

A group of NJ Sharing Network team members and award honorees gathered for a photo during the 2026 Volunteer Appreciation Reception in New Providence. The event celebrated the dedication and impact of volunteers and community partners who support NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission. Pictured left to right: Joseph Yaccarino (NJ Sharing Network), Ametra Burton (NJ Sharing Network), Vanessa Chomiak (accepting the Youth Volunteer Award for son Alex Chomiak), Janice Campbell (Community Hero Award), LaVise McCray (Community Hero Award), Ingrid Floyd and Audria Russell of Iris House (Community Partner Award), Bobbie Peer of TAPinto Berkeley Heights and TAPinto New Providence (Media Champion Award), and Amy Young (NJ Sharing Network). Also honored but not pictured: Jo Facciolli (Wrapped in Love Volunteer Award) and Jenny Godnick (Jim Rhatican Legacy Award). (PHOTO CREDIT – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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Una enfermera de Carteret que donó un riñón a su padre encabezará un equipo en una carrera de 5 km

(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)

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La familia Denville rinde homenaje al legado de Adam Bleznick

(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.

Según la Red Unida para el Intercambio de Órganos (UNOS) y la Red de Intercambio de Nueva Jersey, más de 100 000 estadounidenses —entre ellos, casi 4000 residentes de Nueva Jersey— esperan actualmente un trasplante de órganos que les salve la vida. Para obtener más información sobre la donación de órganos y tejidos o para registrarse como donante, visite 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)