Torelli Seeks Kidney Donor, Announces Retirement from RTM In Branford

BRANFORD, CT — On Wednesday, longtime RTM member Clare Torelli announced in a news release that she will not be seeking reelection after 18 years - 9 terms - representing the 1st District due to declining health.

“I am proud of the work I accomplished on the RTM,” said Torelli in a prepared statement. “I was always thinking about what was best for the community and being an advocate for the people. Thank you for trusting me as your representative for so long.”

Clare was diagnosed in August of 2021 with Stage 5 kidney failure from polycystic kidney disease. She is on dialysis three days a week now, four hours a day. Clare continues to search for a kidney donor who can help save her life. A live kidney donor is preferable, as the wait is 4 to 5 years for organ donations. Clare has type O blood so finding a match is important. But she said that anyone who does decide to donate a kidney will help to move her up on the donor list.

“I’d like to recognize and thank Clare Torelli for her years of public service in Branford - there’s hardly anyone I think who does not know her in town,” said Democratic RTM Leader Tracy Everson in a prepared statement. “And for her, and others, if you are able, consider becoming an organ donor. Thank you Clare for your years of service to Branford schools and on the RTM.”

“Clare’s integrity and wisdom has been a North Star, not only for her colleagues on the RTM, but for all Branford Democrats,” said Democratic Town Committee Chair Kevin Coughlin in a prepared statement.. “We all have two kidneys but only need one. I hope you will consider donating to help Clare, a pillar of the Branford community.”

If you, or someone you know, is able to donate, you can complete an online form at HartfordHospital.org/LivingDonation or call the Living Donor Coordinator at 833-222-7770.

Clare is recently retired after being employed for over 43 years by the Branford Board of Education as a receptionist at the Branford High School. She is a former volunteer of MADD, Branford Compassion Club, Branford Community Dining Room, Walter Camp Foundation, and the Special Olympics.

Clare is also a 1967 graduate of Branford High and a native of Branford. Clare raised her children, who were the 4th generation to grow up in her family home.