UNION BEACH, 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 Keyport resident Barbara Mielnicki, the message is deeply personal. Her son, Vincent T. Mielnicki, 43, of Union Beach, passed away in September 2022. A registered organ and tissue donor, Vincent gave the ultimate gift of life — saving four people through organ donation and offering hope to many more through tissue donation.

“My son Vincent was full of kindness and always willing to help others,” said Barbara. “It didn’t mater who you were — if someone needed help, he was there. That’s just how he lived his life every day. Knowing he was a registered organ and tissue donor felt like the perfect reflection of who he truly was, because giving and caring for others came so naturally to him.”

A Life Defined by Kindness and Connection

Born in Rahway and raised in Elizabeth, Vincent later made his home in the Bayshore area. He was known for his contagious laughter, quick sense of humor, and his ability to make people feel seen and valued. He was an avid New York Jets fan, loved music, and cherished spending time with his three daughters — Isabella, Olyvia, and Ameliana. He also enjoyed fishing with his brother Kevin and taking trips to the park with his sister Jessica and her children, Juliana, Jake, and Jackson.

“Vincent loved being a dad,” said Barbara. “He wanted to be with his girls all the time — taking them out, making memories, doing whatever made them smile. He was so proud of them, and everything he did was for his family.”

A Legacy That Saved Lives

Through organ donation, Vincent’s generosity gave four individuals a second chance at life:

• His heart was transplanted into a 57-year-old man

•His liver was transplanted into a 61-year-old man

• His right kidney was transplanted into a 64-year-old woman

• His left kidney was transplanted into a 77-year-old man

“Even in our loss, knowing that Vincent saved lives brings us comfort,” said Barbara. “As a mother, nothing can take away that pain, but to know that part of him is still living on and helping others — that means everything. It’s who he was, and it’s a reminder that his kindness didn’t end the day he passed away.”

In addition to saving lives, Vincent’s tissue donations also contributed to medical research — helping doctors and scientists beter understand disease and improve treatments, with the potential to save even more lives in the future.

Honoring Vincent’s Memory

Barbara continues to honor her son’s life in deeply personal ways. In her home, Barbara has created a special space dedicated to Vincent, filled with meaningful items that keep his presence close. Among them is a custom keepsake bear that holds and plays a recording of Vincent’s heartbeat. She also wears a necklace engraved with Vincent’s image, keeping him close to her heart wherever she goes. Barbara also cherishes a handmade “Wrapped in Love” blanket created by NJ Sharing Network volunteers during her time of loss.

“I miss my son more than words can say, but I hold onto the love, the memories, and the impact he made,” said Barbara. “If Vincent’s story can help even one person say ‘yes’ to organ and tissue donation, then something beautiful can come from our loss. No family ever wants to go through this, but knowing his legacy is helping others live on is a comfort we hold onto every day.”

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

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Vincent T. Mielnicki (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Barbara Mielnicki honors the memory of her son, Vincent T. Mielnicki (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3 – Barbara Mielnicki has a custom keepsake bear that holds and plays a recording of her late son Vincent’s heartbeat (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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)

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)

Interested parties are invited to request the full RFQ package, including scope of work, specifications, and submission requirements, by sending an email to:

cdeappolonio@njsharingnetwork.org.

Please include your company name and contact information in your request. The RFQ documents will be provided electronically upon receipt of your inquiry.

Submission Deadline: April 13, 2026 no later than 12:00 PM ET

NJ Sharing Network reserves the right to accept or reject any or all submissions received. This notice does not constitute a commitment to award a contract(s).

Any questions may be directed to Catherine DeAppolonio, General Counsel & Government Affairs, cdeappolonio@njsharingnetwork.org, Phone: 848-702-3263.

For Dr. Faith Krausman of Montclair, those statistics became personal on July 7, 2015, when she received a lifesaving kidney transplant.

“I am alive and thriving because someone said yes to organ donation,” said Dr. Krausman. “Whether through living donation or by registering now as an organ and tissue donor to one day leave the gift of life as your legacy, that single decision can save lives. If sharing my story inspires even one person to register as a donor, it’s worth it.”

Dr. Krausman is the owner of Vet-On-Wheels, a mobile veterinary practice serving northern New Jersey. In 1990, she was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic condition that gradually led to kidney failure. As her kidney function declined, she became increasingly fatigued but continued working and staying active while preparing for transplant.

Facing the reality that she would soon need a kidney; Dr. Krausman shared a heartfelt letter titled “I Need a Kidney” with her close friends and book group. Among the book group members was Judy Summers of Short Hills, a devoted math tutor, mother, and grandmother known for her generosity in supporting numerous charitable causes. True to her nature, Judy quietly sought evaluation for living kidney donation and was soon identified as the transplant match Dr. Krausman needed.

“When Judy told me she was going to be my donor, I was overwhelmed,” said Dr. Krausman. “I am so grateful it’s beyond words. Every single day I feel blessed to have this gift of life.”

The transplant surgery was successful, and her new kidney worked immediately. Within months, she returned to veterinary medicine – and soon after, to running, biking, yoga, and performing music.

In fact, the transplant opened an unexpected new chapter. Dr. Krausman returned to college to pursue a degree in Jazz Studies and saxophone performance, graduating in May 2023. Today, in addition to treating animals throughout the region, she maintains an active musical career performing in jazz ensembles.

“The goal of transplant is to give you your life back,” she said. “I wasn’t restricted. I was restored.”

Dr. Krausman and Judy celebrate their “kidney-versary” each July with a special dinner and participate annually in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life. Their team’s name, “Keeping the Faith,” reflects both gratitude and hope.

Judy has often said that seeing Dr. Krausman thrive is the greatest reward. As Dr. Krausman shares, “She tells me that giving me her kidney and watching me live my life fully makes her happier than any gift I could ever buy her.”

By sharing her story during National Kidney Month, Dr. Krausman hopes more people will register as organ and tissue donors and consider living donation.

“One person’s decision can change everything,” she said. “You only need one kidney to live – but you can give someone else an entire future.”

PHOTO CAPTION #1 – Montclair Veterinarian Dr. Faith Krausman (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2 – Dr. Faith Krausman and her living kidney donor Judy Summers (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3 – (From Left) Ed and Judy Summers join Ron Kaplan, Dr. Faith Krausman, their daughter Rachel Kaplan, and Stafford Enck as they prepare to participate in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life. (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

Spotswood, NJ — The family of Robert Jack “RJ” Oross is honoring his lifelong commitment to helping others by sharing his story and encouraging the community to consider registering as organ and tissue donors.

RJ, 22, of Spotswood, tragically passed away on May 17, 2025, following a motorcycle accident in East Brunswick. A proud Second Lieutenant with the Spotswood Volunteer Fire Department – Enterprise Hook & Ladder Co., Inc., RJ had dedicated himself to serving and protecting his community from a young age. Even in his passing, RJ continued to enhance the lives of others as an eye and tissue donor.

“My son dedicated his life to saving others,” said his mother, Heidi Oross. “He always honored his grandfather, who was also an organ donor, by wearing NJ Sharing Network’s green bracelets as a piece of him always with RJ. He repaid the same donation that meant so much to him — the gift of LIFE.”

Born in New Brunswick and a lifelong resident of Spotswood, RJ graduated from Spotswood High School in 2021. He joined the fire department as a Junior Firefighter at just 16 years old and quickly demonstrated a strong work ethic and desire to learn. He completed extensive training, including Firefighter 1 certification, Surface Ice Rescue, Motor Vehicle Extrication, Traffic Incident Management, and Incident Command courses.

In January 2025, RJ was sworn in as Second Lieutenant — a role he embraced with pride, positivity, and leadership. Fellow firefighters described him as self-motivated, loyal, and always willing to take initiative, including mentoring the department’s newest junior members.

Outside of the firehouse, RJ worked for local public works departments and businesses and was known for his love of the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. His infectious smile, humor, and “Ciao for now” sign-off became part of his unforgettable personality.

Through his generous decision to register as an organ and tissue donor, RJ’s impact continues beyond his years.

“RJ made a huge impact in this world that will forever go on because of his need to care for others and always make the best out of every situation,” said Heidi. “He is and will always be honored, loved, and beyond missed.”

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.

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

PHOTO CAPTION – Robert “RJ” Oross (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

Brian Letrent, 34, died suddenly on June 21, 2023, after suffering a cardiac episode following firefighter training. A proud member of the Bayville Volunteer Fire Department Station #17, Letrent had dedicated his life to protecting others—serving as a firefighter for more than a decade, a trained officer with Ocean County HazMat, and a U.S. Army veteran deployed to Iraq.

What his family did not know at the time was that Brian had also made the decision to register as an organ and tissue donor.

“I had no idea he was an organ and tissue donor until I got the call after he passed,” said his mother, Kathleen Whitley. “Of course, I honored his wishes. He was a hero in life—and continues to be one after life.”

Through donation, Brian saved and enhanced multiple lives, including individuals with visual impairments, a woman battling breast cancer, and a 5-year-old child in need of a bone marrow transplant.

“I’ve received letters from the recipients about how Brian’s donation changed their lives,” said Whitley. “They couldn’t be more thankful—and that means a lot to me.”

Brian’s commitment to service began early. He enlisted in the U.S. Army while still in high school and was deployed overseas before returning home to Bayville, where he built a career as a mechanic with the Berkeley Township Sewage Authority, earning a promotion shortly before his passing. Outside of work and firefighting, Brian was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping, kayaking, quad riding, and NASCAR racing.

Known among his fellow firefighters as one of the department’s top responders, Brian was also awarded the Medal of Gallantry for risking his life to rescue a missing person from a nearby creek.

Now, his family is honoring his legacy by advocating for organ and tissue donation through NJ Sharing Network, the nonprofit organization responsible for saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation in New Jersey.

“Since my son’s passing, everyone in our family has made sure their license says, ‘organ donor,’” said Whitley. “It’s amazing how much being a donor can change—and save—someone else’s life.”

National Donor Day, observed annually on February 14, raises awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation and celebrates the lifesaving generosity of donors and their families. 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.

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

PHOTO CAPTION – Brian Joseph Letrent (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network

“Reaching this milestone has been incredibly emotional,” said Laurie. “When I think about how close I came to losing my life, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the organ donors and their families who gave me the chance to see this new year — and so many others.”

At just 24 years old, Laurie went from being a healthy college graduate starting her career to fighting for her life after Wilson’s Disease caused acute liver failure. Listed as Status 1A — the most critical designation on the transplant waiting list — Laurie was only days away from death when doctors made the urgent decision to proceed with a liver transplant, her only chance to survive.

Her transplant journey, however, did not end there. Years of health challenges eventually led to a second liver transplant six and a half years later. Throughout the uncertainty and recovery, Laurie remained focused on the opportunity she had been given.

“Every single second of the struggle was worth it,” said Laurie. “There is no greater reward than one you must fight hard to achieve – especially when that reward is more life to live with your family and friends.”

Thanks to her organ donors, Laurie has gone on to build a life defined not by illness, but by purpose. She married her husband, became a mother to two children, advanced professionally, traveled, and volunteered with organizations like NJ Sharing Network to help educate others about the importance of organ and tissue donation.

“Organ donation didn’t just save my life — it allowed me to live it fully and honor the gifts I have been given,” said Laurie. “I have been able to cheer on my children at their soccer and basketball games and beam with pride at all their accomplishments. I attended my sisters’ weddings and held my nieces and nephews when they were born. I held my husband’s hand and continued to fall in love with him more each day. I visited my parents at their new home in Florida and created new holiday traditions. I talked to God and my donors on my way into work and found my way back to church on Sundays.”

Today, Laurie also leads an active and healthy lifestyle, embracing fitness and personal growth. Her commitment to fitness has included completing a Tough Mudder race, competing in local powerlifting meets, and running in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life and other community events — activities she never imagined possible during her transplant journey.

“I am so proud to say that I am the healthiest and happiest I have ever been,” said Laurie. “The past 20 years have been the ultimate blessing. I look forward to not only 2026, but 2036, and 2046, and however many more years, thanks to the two organ donor heroes that saved my life.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 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. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO CAPTION #1

Laurie Schulte of Hillsborough, NJ, celebrates the 20^th anniversary of her lifesaving liver transplant. (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #2

(Pictured third from left) Hillsborough resident and liver transplant recipient Laurie Schulte spends time with her husband, Dan, their children, Mya and Grayson, and their dog, Fredo. (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO CAPTION #3

Hillsborough resident and liver transplant recipient Laurie Schulte lifts weights during a strength-training workout, part of her ongoing commitment to health and wellness. (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

On July 14, 2022, Lily and her mother, Denise, tragically lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident. In the midst of unimaginable grief, Lily’s father, Craig James, made the selfless decision to donate Lily’s organs so that others could live. Lily’s heart and liver saved the lives of two young boys, and her kidneys gave the gift of life to an adult in need. Through her generous gifts, Lily became a true hero whose legacy continues to ripple outward.

The James family traveled to Pasadena to attend the Rose Parade in honor of Lily, whose floragraph was sponsored by the Sharing Network Foundation and made possible through its Employee Giving Campaign. Reflecting on the experience, Craig shared that his decision to say “yes” to organ donation was guided by love and empathy.

“I put myself in the shoes of a parent whose child was desperately waiting for an organ,” Craig said. “I knew organ donation was the right thing to do — and something Denise would have wanted for Lily, too. Lily’s legacy now lives on through others. Seeing Lily honored on such a global stage was deeply meaningful — and knowing her story continues to inspire people makes it even more special.”

Since Lily’s passing, Craig and his family have been embraced by the Waretown and Ocean County communities, including neighbors, parish members, local organizations, and families across the state who were inspired by Lily’s remarkable gift of life. Many have even chosen to honor her legacy by registering as organ and tissue donors.  

PHOTO CAPTION

(Second from left) Craig James of Waretown, NJ, stands beside OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade float while holding a tribute floragraph honoring his daughter, Lilyanne “Lily” James, whose organ donation saved multiple lives. Standing with Craig are his wife, Amanda, and his sons Robert and Nicholas. (Photo Credit – Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

ABOUT ONELEGACY’S DONATE LIFE ROSE PARADE® FLOAT

For the past 23 years, OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade® float has inspired people worldwide to save and heal lives through the powerful message of organ and tissue donation. The 2026 Rose Parade® theme, The Magic in Teamwork, celebrated the power of collaboration and collective achievement — emphasizing that extraordinary outcomes are made possible when people work together. Organ donation and transplantation depend on this teamwork every step of the way. The float featured memorial floragraphs honoring organ and tissue donor heroes, including Lilyanne “Lily” James. These floragraphs replicate photographs and are created entirely from flowers, seeds, and other organic materials.

Anika Bhatnagar – Edison, NJ | Temple University, Pre-Med Health Scholar Program (BS/MD), Major: Biology

Anika’s passion for healthcare and organ donation is deeply personal: her mother donated a kidney to save the life of her father. Inspired by her family’s experience, she volunteers with NJ Sharing Network to raise awareness. She excels academically, gaining hands-on experience through research and clinical internships, and is also the co-founder and CEO of FallVision, LLC, a startup developing wearable technology to improve senior safety. Anika aspires to become an internal medicine physician specializing in nephrology.

Emma Corradino – Piscataway, NJ | Moravian University, Major: Nursing

Emma’s connection to organ and tissue donation began at age five when she attended NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life with her family’s Team Lois. The team honors her aunt’s mother, who passed away in 2010 and gave the gift of life through organ donation. Emma has volunteered with Team Lois for years, creating chalk art tributes, helping design team shirts, and educating peers about the importance of registering as organ donors. Now in her third year of nursing at Moravian University, Emma has completed her first clinical rotations, gaining hands-on experience in oncology and learning how hospital teams and organ procurement organizations collaborate to save lives.

Soleil Duvivier – Piscataway, NJ | Chamberlain University, Major: Nursing

Soleil is a first-generation college student pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. Her passion for healthcare and organ donation stems from her late grandfather, who passed away in 2011 and saved lives by donating his kidneys. Inspired by his generosity, Soleil is dedicated to becoming a nurse who combines medical skill with compassion and advocacy for patients. While balancing academics and employment, she hopes to work in research and contribute to health equity and innovation across diverse populations in New Jersey and beyond.

Alexander Rausch – Tinton Falls, NJ | Case Western Reserve University, Major: Biochemistry

Alexander is a biochemistry student at Case Western Reserve University whose commitment to organ and tissue donation spans research and clinical advocacy. He works as a preservationist with Transplant Advocates, assisting in maintaining donor hearts for transplantation, and has held multiple research and clinical roles. He also volunteers at the Transplant House of Cleveland, supporting transplant recipients and their families. Inspired by the courage of donors and recipients, Alexander plans to pursue a career in medicine and transplantation research.

Angelyna Scheck – Newton, NJ | Eastwick College, Major: Mortuary Sciences

Angelyna is a student at Eastwick College pursuing a degree in Mortuary Sciences, with a deep commitment to supporting families through the funeral services profession. Her passion for organ and tissue donation stems from a personal experience when a close family member received a lifesaving transplant from her uncle, who tragically passed away at a young age. Angelyna’s professional work in funeral services allows her to provide support and comfort to grieving families during difficult times. She is dedicated to combining empathy, education, and advocacy in her career to honor donor legacies and support those in need.

Emma Szabo – Montvale, NJ | Penn State University, Major: Biobehavioral Health

Emma is pursuing a degree in Biobehavioral Health at Penn State University, inspired by her father’s experiences with two kidney transplants. Her personal connection to organ and tissue donation has shaped her career aspirations, motivating her to become a nurse practitioner who supports both patients and their families. Emma has also contributed to her community through volunteer work with Penn State’s THON and Teens Against Cancer.

“These remarkable students inspire us with their dedication to making a difference in the lives of others,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation. “Their commitment underscores the importance of NJ Sharing Network’s mission, and we are thrilled to support their journey. We are confident that each of these scholarship recipients will contribute significantly in their future careers in healthcare.”

The Sharing Network Foundation’s Health Sciences Scholarship Program is open to New Jersey residents currently enrolled in a U.S. college or university, majoring in fields such as nursing, social work, medical technology, or biology. Applicants are required to demonstrate a connection to organ and tissue donation and transplantation through personal experience, advocacy efforts, or professional aspirations.

For more information about the Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarships and other programs, please visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/Scholarship.