Page 12 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2024 DONORS | FROM Page 1 viduals in New England currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant, Mayor Patrick Keefe, Jr. declared February 14 “Have a Heart & Give a Heart Day” in recognition of those touched by organ and tissue donors citywide. On February 9, New England Donor Services, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Offi ce, were joined by four local donors and their organ recipients, in celebration of this event. Three people in one room all gave a kidney to a loved one. Keefe, who in the past donated his left kidney to his mother, Lucille, noted: “You have the opportunity to change the outcome of someone’s life with a selfless act. Choose to make that outcome a positive one.” The Mayor added, “Give the gift of life by choosing to be a donor.” For information, contact Matt Boger: 617-780-6249 / matt_boger@neds.org. To register to be a donor outside the RMV offi ce, or for information, visit mass.gov/ OrganDonor. Living donors and survivors rallied together in an eff ort to get more donors. Shown from left to right: Matt Boger, State Representative Jessica Giannino and Mayor Patrick Keefe with a state citation last Friday morning at Revere City Hall. Shown from left to right: State Representative Jessica Giannino, Bob Sawyer, Matt Boger and State Senator Lydia Edwards. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Rocco Falzone thanked his wife, Colleen, for donating her kidney. Revere resident Bob Sawyer received a new extension on life by receiving a heart from the “greatest hero” whom he never met. New England Donor Services Government Relations Director Matt Boger encouraged people to register as an organ donor at the Registry of Motor Vehicles, which is in Revere, or online. There’s no age limit to register. State Representative Jessica Giannino said her great uncle lived 18 more months with an organ transplant. A LIVING TESTAMENT: Lucille Keefe thanked her son for saving her life more than 20 years ago. Colleen Falzone said 22 people die daily because they need a kidney. John Nucci received a kidney from his friend, Kerri Perullo – pictured with her son, Owen. Valeria Tafur received a kidney from her brother, Antonio. Kenny Laferriere has lived another 23 years by receiving a heart transplant.
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