Morristown’s Kerry O’Connor Celebrates 11th Anniversary of Lifesaving Pancreas Transplant and Advocates for Organ Donation
(Morristown, NJ) – Kerry O’Connor is celebrating a significant milestone this September – it is 11 years since a pancreas transplant saved her life. Reflecting on her journey, Kerry is using this anniversary to advocate for NJ Sharing Network and encourage people to register as organ and tissue donors to help save and enhance lives.
“Not a day goes by that I don't think about the incredible gift my organ donor gave me. Their selfless choice has given me a life I never imagined possible,” said Kerry. “Sharing my story with others is my way of honoring my donor’s legacy and supporting the vital work of NJ Sharing Network.”
Kerry’s health challenges began at a young age when she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Despite using the most up-to-date diabetes technology, including an insulin pump and Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS), Kerry struggled with severe hypoglycemia unawareness. Her blood sugar levels could drop dangerously low without warning, putting her life at constant risk. Simple activities like folding laundry could cause her blood sugar to plummet, forcing her to administer glucagon to herself to prevent losing consciousness.
Kerry had been living with Type 1 diabetes for 28 years. The only solution to her condition was a pancreas transplant. She was placed on the waiting list, and after 11 months, she received the life-changing call. Kerry's donor, like her, was CMV and EBV negative, a rare match that allowed for the successful transplant on September 3, 2013, at University of Minnesota Medical Center.
Since her transplant, Kerry has not only regained her health but has also embraced life with a renewed sense of purpose. She has traveled to France, volunteered often for NJ Sharing Network, and most notably, welcomed three children into the world. Her children, Gracyn (8), Saoirse (6), and Seamus (3), are a testament to the incredible second chance at life that her transplant provided.
“Most pancreas transplant recipients don’t have children, let alone three,” said Kerry. “My husband Billy and I are truly blessed. I am living proof of the lifesaving power of organ donation. Our children are a daily reminder of what a miracle this journey has been. I hope my story inspires others to consider registering as organ and tissue donors. You truly have the power to save lives.”
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them in New Jersey. One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. But the need for registered donors is critical, as only 3 in 1,000 people pass away in a manner that allows for organ donation.
To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION - (Standing at right) Pancreas transplant recipient Kerry O’Connor enjoys a precious moment with her husband Billy and their children (left-to-right) Saoirse, Gracyn, and Seamus. (PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)