(NORTH HALEDON, NJ) – The family of North Haledon resident John Levine continues to honor his life and legacy through acts of generosity that make a lasting impact on countless lives.

More than 175 golfers, friends, family members, business leaders, and community supporters recently gathered at Arcola Country Club in Paramus for The John Levine Fund’s 6th Annual Benefit Golf Outing and Dinner, raising more than $190,000 for the Sharing Network Foundation. Through this event and other charitable initiatives, the Levine family and their supporters have contributed more than $425,000 to advance NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

The event brought together many of the region’s leaders in commercial real estate, reflecting the industry’s strong commitment to giving back to the community. Lead sponsors included Deugen Development Real Estate, Cole Schotz P.C., MSW – Murphy Schiller & Wilkes LLP, Newmark, and Devli Real Estate.

John passed away unexpectedly in September 2014 at the age of 54. A devoted husband, proud father, accomplished business leader, and loyal friend, John made the selfless decision to register as an organ and tissue donor. John’s gifts as an organ donor saved lives and inspired his family to channel their loss into a mission of service.

Since John’s passing, his wife, Jacqueline, and their children, Jennifer and Jesse, have continued to honor his legacy through a variety of volunteer, educational, and fundraising efforts in support of NJ Sharing Network. The annual benefit is led by John’s son-in-law, Eric Gormeley, with the support of Jennifer, the Levine family, and many dedicated volunteers. Through the event, Eric has united colleagues and leaders throughout the commercial real estate industry to honor John’s legacy while raising awareness about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation.

“Our family started this event to honor John, but it’s also about helping others understand that every person has the opportunity to be a hero,” said Eric Gormeley. “Helping carry forward John’s legacy means a great deal to our family. If sharing his story inspires even one more person to register as an organ and tissue donor, then we’ve made a difference.”

Jennifer Gormeley, John’s daughter, said the event also serves as a heartfelt reminder of the many lives her father touched, both during his lifetime and through his decision to become an organ donor.

“My dad had a way of bringing people together, and this event is a beautiful reflection of who he was,” she said. “Seeing so many family members, friends, colleagues, and supporters come together each year reminds us that his kindness continues to live on in ways we never could have imagined.”

The Sharing Network Foundation supports the mission of NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated nonprofit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue. Funds raised help advance clinical innovation, provide compassionate support to organ and tissue donor families, and expand public awareness and education throughout New Jersey.

“The Levine family has shown how one family’s commitment can inspire an entire community to make a difference,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation. “Year after year, the John Levine fund brings together people who believe in helping others. Their ongoing commitment not only honors John’s remarkable legacy but also helps inspire more people to give the gift of life for generations to come.”

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 or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

For more information about the Sharing Network Foundation, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org.

PHOTO #1 – (L-R) Reese and Jesse Levine, Jacqueline Levine, Jennifer Gormeley and her children, Declan, Anneliese and Aurora, (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #2 – Eric and Jennifer Gormeley are pictured with their children, Declan, Anneliese and Aurora, during The John Levine Fund’s 6th Annual Benefit Golf Outing. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #3 – North Haledon resident John Levine gave the gift of life to others as an organ donor (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(NEWARK, N.J.) — Ten years ago, Gloria Robinson-Mills of Newark, N.J., wasn’t sure how much time she had left to live. Today, the 77-year-old is celebrating a decade of life after receiving a lifesaving liver transplant—and using her story to support NJ Sharing Network’s mission and encourage others to give the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.

“I am so blessed to have lived these 10 years because of my organ donor,” said Gloria. “I never knew how many years I would be given. I hoped for one year, then three, and now it’s been 10. I’m still here, still living, and still grateful for every day.”

Gloria’s transplant journey began with a routine blood test that revealed elevated liver enzymes. She was diagnosed with hepatitis, which eventually progressed to cirrhosis and the need for a liver transplant. Gloria kept much of her health journey private. But when she learned that the wait for a transplant could be years, she became determined to advocate for herself and explore every option. She traveled to several transplant centers around the country and even rented an apartment in St. Petersburg, Florida, so she could be close to a transplant center and ready to respond if a liver became available.

Then, in August 2016, Gloria returned to New Jersey for dental work. While at her dentist’s office, she received the call she had been waiting for: a liver was available for transplant at NYU Langone Transplant Institute.

“I immediately called my family, and I was on my way into New York,” Gloria recalled.

She received her lifesaving transplant on Aug. 16, 2016.

Looking back, Gloria is struck by the timing.

“Coming back to New Jersey for dental work felt like part of a bigger plan—one that was beyond anything I could have imagined,” she said. “I never could have planned it, but somehow everything fell into place. I truly believe I was meant to be back in New Jersey when that call came.” 

Turning a Second Chance Into a Life of Service

Born and raised in Newark, Gloria spent her career as a social worker with the Essex County Welfare Division and has long advocated for underserved communities. For several years, she operated a program for people experiencing homelessness in Newark and founded Humans for Humanity, which provided clothing, food, and household necessities to people in need. Today, she continues helping others while serving as a full-time caregiver for her longtime partner.

“The transplant gave me more time, and I wanted to make that time count,” Gloria said. “I’ve always believed that if you have something to give, you should give it.”

Her message is especially meaningful during August, which is National Minority Donor Awareness Month—a time where NJ Sharing Network joins organizations across the country to honor the generosity of organ and tissue donors and their families while raising awareness about the need for more registered donors in diverse communities.

Nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and approximately 67% are people of color, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). One organ donor can save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 people.

As an African American transplant recipient, Gloria hopes her story inspires people in her community and beyond to consider registering as organ and tissue donors. Greater diversity among registered donors can help increase access to transplantation for everyone.

For Gloria, each year since her transplant has been a reminder of the person whose gift made those years possible. Although she does not know her donor’s identity, she remains deeply grateful to the donor and their family.

“I wish I could thank my donor’s family in person,” Gloria said. “I know that while I was given the opportunity to live, they were experiencing an incredible loss. I will never take for granted what they gave me.”

Now, as she celebrates 10 years since her transplant, Gloria hopes her story can offer encouragement to others waiting for a lifesaving transplant while inspiring more people to become donors.

“Don’t give up hope,” Gloria said. “Be your own advocate, ask questions and explore every option available to you. I want people to know that there can be hope even when the road ahead seems uncertain. I’m grateful for the life I’ve been given, and I want to use it to make a difference. If you have something to give, give it—you never know whose life you could change.”

To learn more or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO 1 – Gloria Robinson-Mills of Newark, NJ (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO 2 – Gloria Robinson-Mills and her friend Denise Cooney celebrate the anniversary of Gloria’s liver transplant (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ) – The Sharing Network Foundation has announced the election of its 2026–2027 Board Officers, who will help lead strategic fundraising and resource development efforts in support of NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated nonprofit responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue in New Jersey.

Through philanthropic support, the Sharing Network Foundation helps advance clinical innovation, provide compassionate services to organ and tissue donor families, and expand public awareness and education about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees includes leaders from the public and private sectors, as well as organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, healthcare professionals, and community advocates. Effective immediately, the newly elected officers are:

Chair – Debbie Prince of North Caldwell, NJ

Debbie Prince has been elected Chair of the Sharing Network Foundation Board of Trustees, bringing more than a decade of passionate volunteer leadership and advocacy to the role. Since her son, Sam, received a lifesaving heart transplant in 2011, Prince and her family have become dedicated champions of organ and tissue donation through fundraising, public outreach, and volunteer service. She previously served as Vice Chair of the Foundation Board and has played an active role in advancing Foundation initiatives. The Prince family is also widely recognized throughout the NJ Sharing Network community for its longstanding involvement in the annual 5K Celebration of Life and other Foundation events that inspire hope while raising critical funds for the mission.

“Fifteen years ago, our family received the greatest gift imaginable when Sam received his heart transplant,” said Prince. “Before his transplant, Sam could not 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 have 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.”

Vice Chair – Chris Bryant of Woodbridge, NJ

Chris Bryant has been elected Vice Chair after serving on the Sharing Network Foundation Board since 2023. A two-time kidney recipient and two-time pancreas recipient, Bryant has transformed his personal transplant journey into a lifelong commitment to advocacy. In addition to his work as an information technology consultant, he serves as a Lead Care Guide and Patient Advocate for The Diabetes Foundation and volunteers with organizations dedicated to supporting kidney patients, transplant recipients, and underserved communities. Drawing on his own transplant journey, Bryant regularly mentors individuals awaiting transplantation, encouraging them to remain hopeful while helping them navigate the challenges of chronic illness and organ failure.

“I’ve experienced firsthand how one person’s decision to become an organ donor can create a lifetime of possibilities,” said Bryant. “As Vice Chair, I look forward to helping expand awareness, inspire new supporters, and ensure more people understand the incredible difference they can make by saying ‘yes’ to donation.”

Secretary/Treasurer – Sandy Erwin of Newton, NJ

Sandy Erwin will continue serving as Secretary/Treasurer of the Foundation Board, a position she has held with distinction following her appointment to the Board in 2018. A retired nonprofit executive and former Assistant Director of the Sharing Network Foundation, Erwin has devoted her career to strengthening charitable organizations and advancing community impact. She continues to volunteer her time in support of the organization’s mission. Her decades of nonprofit leadership and institutional knowledge provide invaluable guidance as the Foundation continues to expand its philanthropic impact across New Jersey.

“The Foundation’s success is built on thoughtful stewardship and the generosity of our supporters,” said Erwin. “I am proud to continue serving alongside such dedicated volunteers and leadership as we work to create lasting impact for donor families, transplant recipients, and everyone touched by our mission.”

Immediate Past Chair – Ron Oswick of Freehold, NJ

Ron Oswick will serve as Immediate Past Chair after providing exceptional leadership during his tenure as Board Chair. A Foundation trustee since 2018, Oswick has helped strengthen fundraising efforts while championing organ and tissue donation in honor of his wife, Tanya, who recently celebrated the 31^st anniversary of her lifesaving heart transplant. Together, they remain active supporters of the Foundation, including participating each year in the 5K Celebration of Life with their team, Second Chance. As Immediate Past Chair, Oswick will continue providing guidance and continuity while mentoring fellow trustees and supporting the Foundation’s long-term strategic priorities.

“Leading this Board has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Oswick. “I look forward to continuing to support our outstanding leadership team and helping build an even stronger future for the Foundation and the families we serve.”

Amanda Tibok, Executive Director of the Sharing Network Foundation, said the newly elected officers represent the strength and diversity of the Foundation’s leadership.

“Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective shaped by professional expertise, personal experience, and a powerful commitment to our mission,” said Tibok. “Together, they will help us strengthen our philanthropic impact, foster new partnerships, and ensure the Foundation continues creating opportunities to save and enhance lives for years to come.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org. To learn more about the Sharing Network Foundation or to make a contribution, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org.

PHOTO CAPTION – (L-R) Chris Bryant of Woodbridge, NJ; Debbie Prince of North Caldwell, NJ; Sandy Erwin of Newton, NJ; and Ron Oswick of Freehold, NJ (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

Interested parties are invited to request the full RFP 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 RFP documents will be provided electronically upon receipt of your inquiry.

Submission Deadline: August 31, 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.

(PATERSON, N.J.) – Residents and neighbors across Paterson and surrounding communities are invited to celebrate National Minority Donor Awareness Month at NJ Sharing Network’s free Live Healthy & Move community event on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Vera Ames Community Park, 118 Rosa Parks Blvd., Paterson.

The free event will feature health screenings, fitness activities, nutrition education, music, live performances, children’s activities, community resources, and information about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation. Designed for all ages, Live Health & Move encourages healthy lifestyles while bringing together local organizations dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the community.

The event is part of NJ Sharing Network’s statewide observance of National Minority Donor Awareness Month, which honors the generosity of multicultural organ and tissue donors and their families while raising awareness about the critical need for more registered organ and tissue donors in diverse communities. Several local organizations, including St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, the City of Paterson, and Diabetes Foundation, Inc., will be on hand to share health and wellness resources, offer educational information, and provide giveaways for attendees.

Born and raised in Paterson, E. Denise Peoples, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at NJ Sharing Network and a double-lung transplant recipient, leads community outreach efforts throughout the year in schools, faith-based organizations, and neighborhood associations. Her personal transplant journey inspires her commitment to promoting healthy living and increasing awareness about organ and tissue donation throughout New Jersey.

“Live Healthy & Move brings together health, wellness, and community in a fun and welcoming environment,” said Peoples. “We’re excited to return to Paterson and connect families with valuable health resources while sharing the importance of organ and tissue donation. Thanks to the support of our community partners, this event reflects what we can accomplish together to build healthier communities.”

Nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are currently waiting for a lifesaving transplant, and approximately 67% are people of color, according to United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). One organ donor can save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can enhance the lives of more than 75 people.

National Minority Donor Awareness Month also shines a light on the health conditions that disproportionately affect many multicultural communities including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and kidney disease—conditions that can increase the need for lifesaving organ transplants. The observance encourages families to have conversations about organ and tissue donation while promoting healthy lifestyles and disease prevention.

“When we come together as a community to prioritize our health and have honest conversations about organ and tissue donation, we can make a lasting difference,” said Peoples. “Every person who chooses to register as an organ and tissue donor has the potential to give someone else a second chance at life, and every healthy choice we make today helps strengthen our communities for tomorrow.”

Throughout August, NJ Sharing Network will host and participate in community events across New Jersey in recognition of National Minority Donor Awareness Month. The organization’s website and social media platforms will feature information about local activities, educational resources, videos, downloadable materials, and ways to get involved. For additional information about the event and National Minority Donor Awareness Month activities, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org/Events.

(DENVER, CO) – Rich and Donna Albanese-DeMair, who help lead their family’s iconic Dairy Queen in Plainfield, proudly represented Team Liberty at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado. The event held special significance for the couple, whose transplant journeys are linked by a remarkable milestone: Donna donated a kidney to save her mother’s life in May 2002, and 20 years later, in May 2022, Rich received the lifesaving heart transplant that gave him a second chance at life.

The biennial Transplant Games brought together thousands of transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, and supporters from all 50 states for a week of athletic competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Participants competed in events including basketball, track and field, swimming, pickleball, bowling, cornhole, cycling, and trivia. This year’s Games also set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipients, with 966 participants assembled in one place.

Rich and Donna represented Team Liberty, a program of the Sharing Network Foundation that includes participants from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. Donna earned a silver medal in doubles bowling, while Rich competed in cycling and helped Team Liberty capture a bronze medal in the trivia competition. Together, they also participated in the 5K event and joined fellow Team Liberty members in the Guinness World Record-setting gathering.

Their journey with organ donation spans more than two decades. Donna became a living kidney donor in 2002 when she donated one of her kidneys to save the life of her mother, Adele Albanese. Twenty years later, after living with advanced heart disease, Rich received the lifesaving heart transplant he desperately needed.  Together, they have become passionate advocates for NJ Sharing Network, sharing their story to inspire others to register as donors and consider living donation.

“Walking into the Transplant Games surrounded by thousands of people whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation was incredibly emotional,” said Donna. “Being a living donor has always been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and celebrating with Rich after everything we have been through made it even more special.”

For Rich, participating in the Games as a heart transplant recipient was an opportunity to honor the donor whose gift made his second chance possible.

“Every mile I rode on my bicycle and every moment I spent with Team Liberty reminded me that I wouldn’t be here without my donor and his family,” said Rich. “I hope our story encourages more people to register as organ and tissue donors and consider becoming living donors because those decisions truly save lives.”

Beyond their advocacy efforts for NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission, Rich and Donna are well known in our local communities for helping lead the Albanese family’s Dairy Queen, one of the largest Dairy Queen restaurants in the country. The family has long supported community organizations and charitable causes throughout New Jersey.

Rich is especially recognized for his bicycle donation program, a labor of love that has now provided 5,476 refurbished bicycles to children and teens throughout New Jersey. Working with approximately 15 charitable organizations, he continues to expand the initiative as a way of honoring his heart donor’s legacy and giving back to others.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Learn more or register as a donor at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTOS: Rich and Donna Albanese-DeMair, who help lead their family’s Dairy Queen in Plainfield, represented Team Liberty at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver. (Photo Credits: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(NEPTUNE, N.J.) — Fifteen years ago, Kevin Quinn received a gift that changed the course of his life forever — a donated heart. This month, the Neptune resident celebrated the anniversary of that lifesaving transplant and the journey that followed, including a second heart transplant that allowed him to continue making memories with the people he loves. Today, Quinn shares his story to support the mission of NJ Sharing Network and help others understand the impact of organ and tissue donation.

“Every day, I know that I am here because someone made the decision to give the gift of life,” said Quinn. “There are two families who made it possible for me to have more time with my family, see my children reach milestones and meet my grandchildren. I never forget how much those decisions meant, and I want people to understand the difference they can make by registering as organ and tissue donors.”

A Life-Changing Diagnosis

Quinn, 70, marked the 15th anniversary of his first heart transplant on July 17. Before his diagnosis, he considered himself healthy and active. Around age 50, an abnormal EKG led to further testing that revealed cardiomyopathy—a condition that gradually weakens the heart muscle.

“I was shocked because I felt OK,” Quinn recalled. “I was still active and didn’t think something like this was possible. Hearing that I would eventually need a transplant was hard to process, but I trusted my doctors and followed their guidance.”

Over time, his condition worsened, and in 2011 he received a lifesaving heart transplant that changed the course of his life. Following his first transplant surgery, Quinn focused on recovery and followed the instructions of his medical team, leaving the hospital just seven days later.

“I didn’t know exactly what recovery would look like, but I knew I had to do what they told me,” Quinn said. “I wanted to get moving, get stronger and start living again.”

A Second Heart Transplant

Several years later, Quinn learned he would need another transplant. Although he felt well, follow-up testing showed that plaque buildup was affecting the arteries of his transplanted heart. In 2015, he was placed back on the waiting list and spent approximately three months in the hospital waiting for another donor heart. During that time, Quinn remained active and became a source of encouragement for other patients waiting for their own transplants.

“I was kind of like the mayor of the cardiac floor,” he said. “People would ask questions because I had already been through it. Being able to help other people gave me something positive to focus on while I was waiting.”

Eventually, Quinn received the call that another donor heart had become available. His second transplant gave him another opportunity to continue the life he values today.

Turning Gratitude Into Action

Because of his transplants, Quinn has been able to experience milestones he never wanted to take for granted — including seeing both of his sons, Bob and Brian, getting married and welcoming three grandchildren into the family. Now retired after nearly 30 years with Verizon, Quinn enjoys spending time with his wife, Patricia (“Pat”), traveling and making memories together.

For Quinn, the impact of donation goes far beyond his own story. After his first transplant, he connected with the family of his organ donor, James Briner, and developed a lasting friendship with James’ mother, Karen Briner of Westminster, Maryland.

“You need three things when you get older: your health, a little bit of money and some time,” said Quinn. “When you have those things, enjoy them. Spend time with your family, make memories and don’t take those moments for granted.”

As Quinn celebrates 15 years since his first transplant and honors the two donors who made his journey possible, he hopes his story inspires others to register as organ and tissue donors and give someone else the same chance at 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 or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO #1 – (From left) Karen Briner of Westminster, Maryland, holds a photo of her son, James Briner, whose donated heart was transplanted into Kevin Quinn (center), saving his life. Kevin is joined by his wife, Patricia Quinn (right).

PHOTO #2 – (At Top Right) Kevin and Patricia Quinn enjoy a birthday celebration with their sons, Bob and Brian, and their grandchildren, Rose and Stellan.

(NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.) – Just a few years ago, Lodi resident Chris Carrales wasn’t sure if he would survive. Today, he is celebrating life one step at a time.

Carrales recently completed NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life USATF-sanctioned race in New Providence, joining thousands of organ donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and volunteers who walk and run to celebrate the power of organ and tissue donation. The event, which was presented by MTF Biologics, is one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events.

For Carrales, crossing the finish line represented far more than completing his second 5K. It was another milestone in an extraordinary journey made possible by the generosity of one organ donor and the expertise of the transplant team at New York-Presbyterian and Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

After complications from a previous liver transplant led to a rare and life-threatening condition known as portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT), Carrales faced overwhelming odds. His condition ultimately caused multiple organ failure, leaving him critically ill and in need of an exceptionally rare multivisceral transplant.

In a groundbreaking procedure, Carrales received six lifesaving organs — a liver, stomach, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, and kidney — from one selfless organ donor. The complex transplant gave him a second chance at life and marked one of the nation’s rare multivisceral transplant procedures.

Today, Carrales continues to regain his strength while embracing everyday moments with his wife, Jessica, and the family and friends who supported him throughout his journey. Participating in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life allowed him to celebrate how far he has come while honoring the donor whose generosity made his recovery possible.

“I’ll never be able to fully express my gratitude to my donor and their family,” said Carrales. “Because of one selfless decision, I have the opportunity to keep living my life and making memories with the people I love. Running the 5K is my way of honoring that incredible gift and showing others what’s possible through organ donation.”

Carrales hopes sharing his story will encourage more people to register as organ and tissue donors and inspire hope for those currently waiting for a lifesaving transplant.

“There are thousands of people waiting for the phone call that can change their lives,” he said. “I’m living proof that organ donation works. Every step I took during the 5K was possible because someone chose to give the gift of life.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans—including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents—are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

Chris Carrales celebrates completing NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life. (Photo Credits: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(DENVER, CO) – Wayne resident Jean Sime and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford celebrated a remarkable milestone while representing Team Liberty at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado, commemorating the seventh anniversary of the lifesaving kidney transplant that forever changed both of their lives.

The biennial Transplant Games brought together thousands of transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, and supporters from all 50 states and several countries for a week of athletic competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Participants competed in more than 20 events including basketball, track and field, swimming, pickleball, bowling, cornhole, and trivia. This year’s Games also set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipients, with 966 participants assembled in one place.

Sime and Milford represented Team Liberty, a program of the Sharing Network Foundation that includes participants from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. The pair competed in bowling, team trivia, darts and Texas Hold ‘Em. Sime also competed in cornhole.

Their amazing connection began seven years ago when Milford, a longtime nurse at Mountainside Medical Center, volunteered to become a living kidney donor for someone she had never met. That someone was Sime, who had spent years battling chronic kidney disease and undergoing dialysis while waiting for a transplant. What began as a selfless act of generosity has since grown into a lifelong friendship the two women often describe as a sisterhood.

“Celebrating our transplant anniversary at the Transplant Games made the experience even more unforgettable,” said Sime. “Looking around, I saw thousands of people who have all been given another chance at life through organ donation. Being there together with Pat, my living kidney donor, was a precious gift. Many transplant recipients never know who their donor is, while others may know them, but don’t have the opportunity to share life experiences and celebrate milestones together. I will never take this gift for granted.”

For Milford, the anniversary was equally emotional.

“Seven years have gone by so quickly, and seeing Jean healthy, active, and enjoying life is the greatest gift I could ever receive,” said Milford. “Being together at the Transplant Games reminded us how one act of kindness can ripple through so many lives. I hope our story encourages more people to learn about living donation and deceased organ and tissue donation because you truly have the power to save the lives of others.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Learn more or register as a donor at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO #1: Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (left) and Wayne resident Jean Sime (right) help set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of living organ donors and transplant recipient during the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #2: Wayne resident Jean Sime (left) and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (right) get set to compete in the bowling competition at the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #3: Wayne resident Jean Sime (left) and Livingston resident Patricia “Pat” Milford (right) celebrate their friendship and transplant bond at the 2026 Transplant Games of America. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

(NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.) –Thousands gathered in New Providence on June 7 for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF-sanctioned race, presented by MTF Biologics. The event, which is one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, brought together organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and volunteers united by a shared commitment to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation. Funds raised will support the Sharing Network Foundation’s efforts to advance clinical innovation, provide family support, and expand public education and awareness programs.

Family members and friends of the late Gene Patrick Coppola Jr., 21, of Bayonne, NJ, walked together as part of “Team Gene Strong” to honor his memory and help raise awareness about the lifesaving impact of organ and tissue donation.

Gene passed away in May 2022 following a tragic motorcycle accident, just weeks after his 21^st birthday. A Bayonne native, Gene was building a future as a carpenter with Local 253 and had a passion for working with his hands, helping friends and family, and being someone others could count on.

Gene’s mother, Christina Fabiano, said her son’s decision to register as an organ and tissue donor was a reflection of the person he was. Through his selfless decision to be an organ donor, Gene helped save the lives of five people, giving them more time to enjoy cherished moments with their loved ones.

When Gene received his driver’s license with “Organ Donor” highlighted to show he was registered as a donor, he shared his thoughts with his mother in a conversation she will never forget.

“Gene said, ‘If God decides to take me, Mom, why would I let all my organs die and not save people’s lives?’” Christina recalled. “That was who Gene was. He always wanted to make a difference and help others in need.”

Christina hopes that sharing Gene’s story will encourage others to understand the power of organ donation.

“Gene’s life was too short, but his impact continues,” said Christina. “If his story can inspire someone to register as an organ and tissue donor, then his kindness and his gift of life will continue to help others.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans—including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents—are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save 8 lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

PHOTO #1 – Members of “Team Gene Strong” at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #2 – Gene Patrick Coppola, Jr. (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO #3 – Gene Patrick Coppola, Jr. and his mother Christina Fabiano (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)