Thousands of people joined together May 18 in Ocean Grove to show their support for organ and tissue donation during NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Certified Race. The event, which was presented by Hackensack Meridian Health, is one of the Garden State’s largest and most-recognized charitable 5K events. Organ and tissue transplant recipients, donor families, living donors, hospital partners and dedicated volunteers were energized to help raise awareness about the power of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. In addition to the 5K race and walk, attendees enjoyed music and dancing, food and refreshments, and children’s activities in a “Kid’s Village” area.
Funds raised by 5K Celebration of Life participants, teams, sponsors and contributors support the Sharing Network Foundation, which is committed to increasing the number of lives saved through clinical advancement, family support and public awareness and education.
So far, nearly $1.3 million has been raised for this year’s campaign.
Another 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Certified Race will be held June 9 at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence. The upcoming 5K event is presented by RWJBarnabas Health. To participate in the 5K event or contribute to a team, sign up at SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.
There are over 100,000 Americans — nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey — waiting for a lifesaving transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others.
