April is National Donate Life Month: Honoring the Legacy of NJ Organ Donors
(New Providence, NJ) – National Donate Life Month, observed each April, raises awareness about the lifesaving power of organ and tissue donation, honors the generosity of donors, and celebrates the lives they save.
NJ Sharing Network, the nonprofit organization responsible for organ and tissue recovery in New Jersey, leads community initiatives and shares inspiring stories of families touched by donation. For more information, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org/DLM.
“National Donate Life Month is a time to honor the lasting legacies of organ and tissue donors,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network. “In New Jersey, we celebrate those who gave the gift of life, offer hope to those still waiting, and work year-round to inspire others to register as donors.”
During National Donate Life Month, NJ Sharing Network honors the memory of all organ and tissue donors and highlights the story of Daniel J. Ford of Wyndmoor, PA, a devoted husband, father, and friend whose generosity and kindness touched everyone he met. Known for his infectious humor, compassionate heart, and unwavering support for his loved ones, Dan’s presence lit up every room. Whether offering advice, sharing a laugh, or cheering passionately for his favorite sports teams, he brought joy to those around him.
On September 7, 2024, Dan passed away unexpectedly at the age of 41, but his commitment to helping others extended beyond his lifetime. His selfless decision to be an organ and tissue donor brought hope to those in need. His donated heart, lungs, and kidneys provided lifesaving transplants to patients awaiting a second chance, while his tissue donations will enhance the lives of many others.
“We are grateful to have been able to honor Dan’s wishes to be an organ and tissue donor,” said his wife, Jenn Ford. “Even in our deepest sadness, we have found comfort in knowing the incredible impact his gifts had on others. He was always someone who wanted to help, and knowing he continues to do so means everything to us.”
As Jenn and Dan’s mother, Margaret Ford, gathered with loved ones at the hospital to say their final goodbyes to Dan, an awe-inspiring moment occurred - a stunning rainbow appeared in the sky above Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden, NJ, Virtua Health's hub for kidney, liver, and pancreas transplantation. Friends and family began sending photos of the rainbow to Jenn, recognizing it as a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of Dan’s enduring love.
“That rainbow felt like a sign from Dan, telling us he is still with us,” said Jenn. “For me and our daughter, Breeanna, it is a lasting reminder of his generous spirit and the lives he touched both in life and through his gift of organ and tissue donation.”
Jenn also expressed deep gratitude for the compassionate support she and her family received during their most difficult moments.
“NJ Sharing Network’s team was there for us every step of the way, offering kindness, guidance, and care that meant more than words can express,” said Jenn. “We are also forever thankful for the incredible staff at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, who treated Dan and our family with such compassion and respect. Their dedication made all the difference in helping us navigate this heartbreaking time.”
Jenn has since dedicated herself to sharing Dan’s story to encourage others to register as organ donors.
“Dan’s decision gave others a second chance at life,” said Jenn. “If his story can inspire just one person to sign up as an organ donor, then his impact will continue to grow.”
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. While the opportunity to give the gift of life is rare, it’s a truly precious one. Less than 1% of all deaths meet the specific medical criteria to become an organ donor, which highlights the importance of encouraging more people to register as donors. Every new donor registration brings hope, helping to save and enhance lives.
To learn more about organ donation, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION – Daniel J. Ford (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
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