Local Woman Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary of Her Lifesaving Liver Transplant During National Liver Month
(Branchburg, NJ) – As part of the nationwide observance of National Liver Month, Katelyn Schwenzer of Branchburg, NJ, recently marked an extraordinary milestone - 30 years since her life was saved by a successful liver transplant.
Katelyn celebrated this significant anniversary by participating in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life USATF Certified Race in Ocean Grove. This event gave Katelyn a meaningful way to honor her journey and raise awareness about the ongoing need for organ and tissue donation.
“Reaching this 30-year milestone is especially meaningful. It’s a powerful reminder of the gift of life that was given to me. Every day is a celebration of this second chance,” said Katelyn. “It was uplifting to be surrounded by so many people at the 5K Celebration of Life who have been touched by organ and tissue donation. Every step I took was a tribute to my organ donor and their family for their selfless act of kindness.”
Now, in recognition of National Liver Month, Katelyn hopes to spread awareness about liver disease and the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation. Katelyn’s critical health challenges began when she was a young girl. She struggled with severe liver disease and her condition worsened over time. Despite these hurdles, Katelyn’s spirit remained unbreakable.
“Every challenge I faced only strengthened my resolve. I’ve always believed that with the right mindset and support from my family, there’s no obstacle too great to overcome. My transplant was a new beginning for me, and it gave me the chance to live a life full of gratitude and purpose,” said Katelyn.
Since her transplant on June 3, 1994, Katelyn has continued to face a series of health issues. She battled pneumonia and is continually tested as she deals with Crohn’s disease and stage four endometriosis. Despite early educational struggles due to her prolonged illness, Katelyn excelled academically and pursued a successful career. Today, Katelyn has built a fulfilling personal and professional life, with strong support from her husband, Bryan Watkinson, her parents, Ellen and Charles Schwenzer, and her sister, Jennifer Schwenzer-Martin.
“Throughout all the ups and downs, I’ve learned to appreciate the simple joys of life and to remain thankful for every opportunity I have been given thanks to my organ donor hero,” said Katelyn.
Liver disease affects millions of people in the U.S., and liver transplants are often the only hope for survival for those with end-stage liver disease. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), over 100,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, including 9,000 adults and children waiting for a new liver. 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 less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to be an organ donor. This underscores the pressing need for more registered donors.
To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION - Katelyn Schwenzer (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)