In recognition of National Donate Life Month, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) hosted a heartfelt “kidneyversary” celebration honoring more than 70 patients who received kidney transplants at the hospital over 25 years ago.
“When this program was first introduced, we were building something that offered patients a new kind of hope,” said Stuart Geffner, MD, MS, MS-HCM, FACS, transplant surgeon, Chairman and Surgeon-in-Chief of the Department of Surgery at CBMC. “These early patients trusted that vision, and their outcomes, more than 25 years later, speaks to how impactful that innovation has been.”
The celebration highlighted the enduring impact of kidney donation. For over two decades, these patients have been able to lead healthy, fulfilling lives thanks to the “gift of life” provided by their donors and the care provided by the CBMC team.
“Each of your journeys tells a story of perseverance, faith, and second chances. Behind every successful transplant is a life restored, a family made whole, and a future reclaimed,” said Harry Sun, MD, Director of Transplant Surgery, to the kidney donors and recipients. “Thank you for reminding us every day that the work we do matters.”
Among those honored was Rita Pessoa, who received a living donor kidney transplant from her mother, Rosetta Pantusa, in 1999 at 18 years-old. Because of her transplant, Rita has been able to build the life she once feared she might lose; graduating college, building a career, traveling, and starting a family. “I’m married to a great husband. I have an amazing son. I’ve been able to live a normal life,” shares Rita. “That’s everything.”
Another honoree, Fred Fares, who received his living donor kidney transplant from his mother, Rosalie Fares, thirty years ago, reflected on the lifelong support he has experienced at CBMC. “Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is a place where care doesn’t stop, it lasts a lifetime,” shares Fred. “Throughout all of the years, the entire transplant team has taken care of me with the utmost professional skill and compassion, helping me stay strong, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually.”
The event also recognized the long-tenured staff members who have been part of the program’s success for more than 25 years.
“We were especially proud to recognize our team members who have been with the program for 25 years or more, ensuring the continuity of care that makes these long-term success stories possible,” said Francis L. Weng, MD, MSCE Chief of Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division, CBMC. “While our patients provide the inspiration, our long-tenured staff provide the foundation. These longevity transplants are a direct reflection of the unwavering dedication of our Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division, the largest kidney transplant center in the Northeast and 7th largest in the United States.”
To learn more about the Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center visit, rwjbh.org/transplant.
