ConnectLife Blog

Happy Donate Life Month! This year's theme is "Rooted in Giving." Join us all April long as we honor local organ donor and recipients and spread the word about the importance of donation.

Ellicottville Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Zachary M. Golley is remembered for his generous spirit. Zach became an organ donor when he passed away in March, saving lives through two kidney transplants, a liver transplant and a heart transplant. Viktoria Hallikäär of Spectrum News recently reported on Zach's legacy. The story is online at https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2025/10/17/selfless-acts-in-life-and-in-death-for-ellicottville-firefighter-zach

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.

In 2016, tragedy took Nicole from her family far too soon. Nicole was an organ and tissue donor, something she had registered to be without hesitation. That selfless decision has since touched the lives of more than 53 people. Each recipient carries a part of her legacy.