Submitted by NJ Sharing Network
On January 1, 2019, Cranford resident Emma Rothman served as a float rider honoree at the 2019 Donate Life Rose Parade Float held in Pasadena, CA. She joined approximately 70 honorees who have been touched by organ, eye and tissue donations, they rode or walked beside the float.
The NJ Sharing Network, located in New Providence, NJ, annually sponsors about 2-3 families to participate on the Donate Life Rose Parade Float.
Each honoree has an inspiring and emotional story. In 2011, Emma Rothman received a heart transplant at just 11-years old, which saved her life. At the time, Emma’s family had no knowledge of transplantation and organ donation, so in 2013, they created Hearts for Emma, an organization that provides assistance to families of children with heart disease and supports educational initiatives relating to heart transplantation and organ and tissue donation. In addition to providing bedside giving, such as helping patients decorate their room, giving patient families meal cards to area restaurants and providing toiletries and other personal care hygiene items to families, the organization educates students and spreads awareness about organ, tissue and cornea donation through educational materials. For example, Emma created and starred in a video called “You Have the Power to Save Lives,” which has been watched by more than 110,000 students through more than 300 school presentations spanning the state. She has also created brochures, stickers and information cards to support the importance of registering as a donor.
About the NJ Sharing Network
NJ Sharing Network is the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for those in need of a life-saving transplant. Nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are currently awaiting transplantation. We are also part of the national recovery system, which is in place for the 115,000 people on the national waiting list.
We operate 24/7/365 with a team of over 150 highly trained and dedicated members on staff. Our Governing and Foundation Boards are made up of a diverse group of individuals from both public and private sectors, across a variety of disciplines, and many of whom have been touched by donation including donor families and recipients. They bring great experience and insight to the important and life-saving work that we do.
For more information visit njsharingnetwork.org.
(above) Emma, her sister Keri, and their parents Nancie & Mark Rothman, at the at 2019 Donate Life Rose Parade.
Photo by Scott Weersing
