Today, Jessica is a wife, mother of two boys, successful professional, author, and passionate advocate for NJ Sharing Network — living proof of the lifesaving power of transplantation and the lasting impact of organ and tissue donors and their families.

“I’m just grateful to be here,” said Jessica. “Every single day feels like a gift because I know how close I came to losing my life. My organ donor gave me time — time to fall in love, become a mother, build a family, and experience all of the moments I once thought I’d never have. This is why organ and tissue donation matters so much to me. Knowing my experience could motivate even one person to register as a donor makes sharing my story entirely worthwhile.”

In 2011, Jessica was a healthy, active young woman living in Ohio, working full-time and focused on fitness and wellness when unexplained symptoms began to appear. Over time, she experienced extreme fatigue and eventually collapsed at work. Doctors discovered her liver enzyme levels were dangerously elevated, and within days her condition rapidly deteriorated. She was rushed to the hospital and ultimately transferred to the transplant unit, where doctors informed her she urgently needed a liver transplant to survive.

In June 2011, she was placed at the top of the national transplant waiting list. Just days later, an 18-year-old deceased organ donor from Ohio gave her a second chance at life.

“I often think about my donor and his family,” said Jessica. “There are never enough words to express the gratitude I feel for the gift they gave me. Because of their selflessness, I’m here raising my children and living a full life.”

Although her recovery included additional complications and a second emergency surgery following the transplant, Jessica persevered. Within months, she returned to work and later relocated to New York City to continue pursuing her career and embrace what she describes as her “second chance at life.”

Not long afterward, she met her future husband, Michael. The couple recently celebrated their 10-year wedding anniversary and are raising their two sons, Robbie and Paulie. Jessica also chronicled her transplant journey in a book written to honor her donor, preserve her story, and encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors.

“When I look back on everything that happened, I’m reminded how quickly life can change. That perspective has shaped the way I live and approach every opportunity I’ve been given,” said Jessica. “Over the years, I’ve met so many people whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. It’s a community connected by resilience and an understanding of how precious life truly is.”

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

PHOTO 1 – Jessica and Dr. Michael Zampieri with their children, Robbie and Paulie (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

PHOTO 2 – Jessica and Dr. Michael Zampieri (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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.

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

PHOTO 1 – 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)

“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)

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence, NJ. The event is one of the Garden State’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, bringing together thousands of participants to honor the gift of life and support the Sharing Network Foundation. To sign up to participate in the 5K Celebration of Life or contribute to a team, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.

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

PHOTO #1 – Adam Bleznick (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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

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

Nearly 245,000 people have already joined the national donor registry through MyChart, using this simple and secure way to help save and heal lives. To register, log in to your account and look for the Organ Donation registration option.💙💚

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans — including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans — are currently waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. To learn more about living kidney donation and deceased organ and tissue donation, visit NJ Sharing Network’s website at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence, NJ. The event is one of the Garden State’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, bringing together thousands of participants to honor the gift of life and support the Sharing Network Foundation. To sign up to participate in the 5K Celebration of Life or contribute to a team, visit www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.

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

PHOTO #1 – Michael Severin (Photo credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Second Chance, A Decade Later

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Family Affair

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

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

Turning Gratitude into Advocacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Life of Compassion and a Lasting Legacy

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

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

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

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

“My Prayers Were Answered”

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Powerful Bond

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

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

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

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

Inspiring Others During National Donate Life Month

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

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

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

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

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

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