Organ Donation Reached a Record High NJ

NJ Sharing Network reports 715 organs were transplanted marking fifth consecutive year of record growth

On Jan 29, 2024

Carolyn M. Welsh, president and CEO of NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization focused on saving and enhancing lives through the recovery of donated organs and tissue in the Garden State, announced the number of organs transplanted in a single year reached an all-time high of 715 in 2023. This marks a significant 7% increase over the previous record of 670 organs transplanted in 2022. It is also the fifth consecutive year NJ Sharing Network has reported new organ donation records, underscoring a clear trend of people saying ‘YES’ in support for organ and tissue donation in the Garden State.

“Thanks to the generosity of New Jersey organ donors and their families, more organs were transplanted than ever before. For the families of those who have received the gift of life it means more time together, more memories to create and more moments to cherish,” said Welsh. “Our team members, hospital partners, and our NJ Sharing Network community have helped us reach new levels of excellence in organ and tissue donation and transplantation. We thank them for their compassion, dedication, and unstoppable spirit that defines our mission. Together, we offer caring support to donor families and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need of a second chance.”

In 2023, the 715 organs transplanted included 374 kidneys, 195 livers, 62 hearts, 60 lungs, 22 pancreata and two (2) intestines. The 374 kidneys and 195 livers transplanted marked all-time highs for NJ Sharing Network. In addition, 44,266 eye and tissue gifts enhanced the quality of life for those in need, an 11% increase over the prior year. Tissue donations include corneas, heart valves, skin grafts, bone grafts, saphenous veins, and tendons. One deceased organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 people.

Amazing Partners. Lifesaving Results.

NJ Sharing Network proudly partners with an extensive network of 54 local hospitals to steward the gift of life.

• Jersey Shore University Medical Center had the highest number of organs transplanted (74) and most tissue and eye donors (76) of any hospital in NJ Sharing Network’s service area.
• Cooper University Hospital had the highest number of organ donors (28) of any of NJ Sharing Network’s partner hospitals.
• University Hospital (Newark) had its highest number of organs recovered for transplant (65) and organ donors (25) in its history.
• An additional 20% of NJ Sharing Network’s partner hospitals set individual records for the highest number of transplanted organs or donated tissue in their history.

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