First Annual Walk for Life New Jersey
Oct 31, 2012 by Gift of Life
News
The sun shined brightly over the Long Branch boardwalk for Gift of Life Bone Marrow Foundation’s First Annual Walk for Life on October 14th, 2012, held in New Jersey. The highlight of the morning was the emotional meeting between Joe, and his donor, Ari. Set in Pier Village, participants were able to overlook the beach as they walked and raised funds for Gift of Life.
Joe and his family anxiously awaited the chance to embrace Ari, the person who had given him a second chance at life. Joe was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) in 2009. His doctor originally gave him 6-18 months to live, but the father of three was determined not to give up. It took two transplants but Joe made it through, and one year after his second transplant he flew all the way to New Jersey from Washington State for Walk for Life and to finally meet Ari.
The only communication the two had before meeting was a letter Ari had sent Joe. “This is a wonderful opportunity,” explained Joe, “It is a great lead-up to a big event in my present life, meeting my donor. I’m a little nervous and very excited.” Ari’s curiosity over his recipient had been “building up” before their big day. Ari swabbed at the Israel Day Parade in New York in May 2010. While he was admittedly a bit hesitant to donate at first, the support he received from his family and friends helped him realize that donating was a “no brainer.” Ari does not view himself as a hero, but rather, thanks Joe for bringing meaning into his life.
The Long Branch Walk was held in memory of Ocean, New Jersey resident Mel Cohen, who received a bone marrow transplant in 2007. After recovering from his transplant Mel became an advocate for Gift of Life, heading the local Ambassador Chapter, speaking to potential donors, raising funds, and providing support to patients. Mel’s dream of a New Jersey Walk finally came true this October with the help of countless generous supporters. Proceeds from the Walk will be used to add hundreds of new donors to the worldwide registry. The 5k walk meant more than just raising funds, it meant giving New Jersey locals a chance to swab and possibly save some lives.
Over $50,000 was raised from the 175 participants who came out to support Gift of Life and the only walk in New Jersey that is solely dedicated to raising awareness and adding new donors to the worldwide bone marrow registry. “We’re very pleased with the turnout,” said Jay Feinberg, Gift of Life’s Executive Director, “we hope to expand our New Jersey Walk with each coming year in an effort to grow the registry.”
To view photos from the New Jersey Walk for Life, please click here.
