Men’s Health Month - 79-Year-Old Newark Man Honors Late Son’s Legacy with Marathon Runs and Lifesaving Advocacy
NEWARK, NJ - As Men’s Health Month brings national attention to the importance of physical and emotional well-being, NJ Sharing Network proudly shines a spotlight on Ezequiel Garcia of Newark - a 79-year-old marathon runner, retired educator, and dedicated volunteer whose incredible stamina and spirit are fueled by love, loss, and the enduring legacy of his son, Reinaldo.
Ezequiel’s running journey began not in his youth, but after unimaginable heartbreak. On September 11, 2011, his son Reinaldo – lovingly known as “Rey” – passed away at the age of 29 in a motorcycle accident. A beloved teacher and coach at Science Park High School in Newark, Reinaldo became a tissue donor. His corneas, heart valves, and bone tissue helped others live healthier lives.
For Ezequiel and his wife, Iris, the decision to say “yes” to donation remains one of the most important their family has ever made.
“It gives us comfort knowing that part of Rey is still living in someone else,” said Ezequiel. “He is our hero. Every time I run, I feel his presence with me - pushing me forward, lifting my spirit. Running gives me strength, but more importantly, it helps me heal and gives me purpose.”
Inspired by his son’s generosity and driven to keep his spirit alive, Ezequiel laced up his sneakers and ran his first-ever 5K at age 67 during NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life in 2013. Since then, he has completed every NJ Sharing Network 5K and consistently placed first in his age group - with only one recent exception when he proudly placed second at the New Providence 5K earlier this year.
Beyond 5Ks, Ezequiel has completed eight full marathons, including iconic races in New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, the Marine Corps Marathon, and the Wineglass Marathon in upstate New York. In total, he has completed close to 100 races, ranging in distance from one mile to 26.2 miles.
This year, during Men’s Health Month, Ezequiel continues to serve as a powerful example of how physical activity and purposeful living can lead to long-term wellness.
“Ezequiel shows us what it means to turn loss into purpose,” said Carolyn Welsh, President and CEO of NJ Sharing Network. “He is an inspiration not only for organ and tissue donor families, but for people everywhere who strive to live healthy, active, and meaningful lives.”
Ezequiel and Iris, both born in Puerto Rico, have lived in Newark since 1971 and spent their careers in education. Today, they are passionate advocates for NJ Sharing Network, raising awareness about organ and tissue donation – especially within local Hispanic communities. They frequently speak at churches, community events, and on Spanish-language media, helping to break down myths and promote lifesaving facts.
“People respond better when they hear something in their own language,” said Ezequiel. “There’s a level of trust and connection that’s built when we speak from the heart in a way that truly resonates with our community. Iris and I have spoken to so many people who carry deep fears and misconceptions - some believe they’re too old to be organ and tissue donors, others worry that if they register, doctors won’t work as hard to save them in an emergency. These myths can be dangerous and prevent lives from being saved. We are here to change that by sharing the truth, educating families, and showing them that donation is a powerful and selfless act of love.”
Currently, more than 100,000 people in the United States – including nearly 4,000 in New Jersey – are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others through tissue donation. To learn more or register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
PHOTO CAPTION – Ezequiel Garcia at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)