Valentina Kutyifa, MD Vice-Chair for Clinical Research | University Of Rochester Medical Center
Valentina Kutyifa, MD Vice-Chair for Clinical Research | University Of Rochester Medical Center
UR Medicine is honoring individuals whose donations of organs, eyes, tissue, and bone marrow provided critically ill patients with a second chance at life. The names of these generous donors will be displayed on the Gift of Life Honor Wall at Strong Memorial Hospital, the sole transplant center in the Finger Lakes region.
This tribute emphasizes the significant role donors play in lifesaving care and is a component of UR Medicine's Donate Life Month celebration, which includes the Rochester River Run/Walk 5K on Sunday, April 13.
Among those recognized is Zachary Remmel, who passed away last fall at the age of 30. His mother, Rhonda Remmel, takes solace in knowing that her son helped others through organ donation. Despite being born with Down syndrome and autism, Zachary is remembered for his smile and enthusiasm.
“Zachary was the most loveable soul, and he liked to meet new people. He was a big hugger--sometimes it was a run-and-hug, and you had to plant your feet as he approached,” said Rhonda Remmel with a laugh.
Rhonda finds comfort in memories of her son and an unexpected letter she received. “A few weeks ago, I got a card from a person who received Zachary’s tissue during knee surgery. They said: ‘I’m healing and will be back and better, thanks to your son.’ It made me so happy to see Zachary lives on through others,” she said. “It was wonderful to see their handwriting and I carried the card around with me for a few days.”
Robert Gruenenfelder, executive director of FLDRN, emphasized the significance of the tribute. “The exhibit is a steady reminder of the sacrifices that individuals and families make. They chose to save someone’s life, allowing second chances to become a reality. We never forget their heroism,” he said.
The River Run/Walk 5K, benefitting local transplant patients, will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 13, at the Genesee Valley Park Roundhouse Shelter. Sponsored by Friends of Strong Memorial Hospital and UR Medicine’s organ transplant teams, the event supports patients as they await and recover from transplant surgery.
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