A team honoring the memory of a Hillsborough teenager who died tragically and saved others as an organ and tissue donor will participate in N.J. Sharing Network’s 5th annual 5K Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 7, in New Providence.
The team captain is Beth Colon, the mother of Jared Colon, who passed away in July 2014 at age 17 following a punch in the head by another Hillsborough teen during an argument.
Ms. Colon said the event allows Jared’s family and friends to honor his memory as well as give hope to people currently waiting for life-saving organ transplants.
“Jared loved the outdoors. He was a catch-and-release fisherman. He also owned lots of chickens and goats. He loved nature, especially getting muddy. He had an incredible heart of gold with an old soul,” Ms. Colon said. “It makes me feel good that he does live on in others.”
When faced with the knowledge that her son was brain dead, the family decided his organs and tissue should save lives. Ms. Colon said she already knows her son’s heart valves saved a life in New Jersey and one of his kidneys saved a 37-year-old father of six. The father sent a letter expressing his gratitude.
“I find comfort in knowing that because of Jared’s gift of life another parent won’t have to go through the same pain and suffering that I did,” said Ms. Colon. She also said that volunteering with N.J. Sharing Network has brought her solace as she continues to mourn the loss of her son.
Team Jared, comprising 14 family members and friends, will come together to honor the teen for what he accomplished in his life and the legacy he created as an organ and tissue donor.
“I know Jared would have wanted it this way,” his mother said.
More than 8,000 people are expected at the 5K Celebration of Life, many touched in some way by organ and tissue donation. Transplant recipients, donor families, living donors, those waiting for a transplant, and hospital, community and corporate sponsors will participate. The theme is “To Honor. To Remember. To Give Hope.”
To sign up, to start or join a team, and to learn more about the event and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
