ConnectLife Blog

A Major Milestone for Organ Donation in New York More than 50% of eligible New York residents are now registered organ, eye, and tissue donors, with 7.9 million people enrolled and a registration rate that has doubled over the past decade. Despite this major milestone, New York still falls below the national average, and more than 8,000 New Yorkers remain on transplant waiting lists, with many dying each year while waiting for a lifesaving organ. A February Heart-to-Heart Cel

Members of the ConnectLife Club of North Collins High School visted ConnectLife headquarters on Dec. 2, 2025. Since 2004, ConnectLife has been educating and inspiring young adults in Western New York to help save and enhance lives through participation in our high school program. Students learn about organ, eye, tissue and blood donation, share information with their peers and support blood drives and donor registry efforts. A highlight of the club year is the chance to tour

Theresa Kehl of Bliss, NY, received a diagnosis of severe liver disease last year. The mother of five was a music teacher for 30 years. She remains active in church and health programs serving Wyoming County. Theresa needs a liver transplant and her friends and family are spreading the word, hoping that a living donor will come forward. “Without a transplant, I lose my mom,” said her daughter Sophia. “Right now our only hope is to find a donor.” Theresa is working with UR Med

In September 2015, Shawn became a hero to many, when his selfless act of organ donation gave the Gift of Life to five people. Through corneal donations, Shawn additionally provided two others the opportunity to see again. The non-profit organization Shawn’s Heroes for Life continues his legacy by honoring and enhancing the lives of veterans and those in need, and by increasing organ donation awareness.