Memory Of Cranford Resident Celebrated At NJ Sharing Network 5K

CRANFORD, NJ — More than 70 family members and friends gathered to celebrate the life of the late Andrew Colucci of Cranford at NJ Sharing Network's 5K Celebration of Life Walk on May 15.

The 28-year-old tragically died in 2018 and was an organ and tissue donor who saved and enhanced the lives of many others. Colucci's parents, Karen and Frank, led a 5K team — dubbed "Andrew's Angels" — at the walk in Long Branch.

Colucci was a graduate from Saint Peter's Prep in Jersey City. He also earned a B.S. degree in Business/Finance from Monmouth University and was a member of Theta Xi Fraternity.

According to NJ Sharing Network, Colucci was passionate about physical fitness and nutrition, loved to cook and discover new restaurants.

Thousands of organ and tissue transplant recipients, donor families, living donors and dedicated volunteers also joined in on the Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Certified Race.

According to United Network for Organ Sharing, there are over 100,000 Americans – nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey – waiting for a life-saving transplant.

NJ Sharing Network says one organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more, get involved and register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

The 5K Celebration of Life, sponsored by Hackensack Meridian Health, is the largest fundraising event to support organ and tissue donation and transplantation in the United States.

Thus far, $924,000 has been raised for this year’s campaign. Another 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Certified Race will be held on Sunday, June 5, in New Providence.

To participate in the upcoming 5K Celebration of Life or contribute to a team, sign up at www.SharingNetworkFoundation.org/5K.

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