Brothers Advocate for Living Organ Donations Ahead of National Donor Day, February 14 | West Essex Tribune

This month marks a special milestone for the Wohl brothers. February 11 marks 11 years since Jared’s living donor transplant saved his younger brother Cameron’s life. Both Jared and Cameron were born and raised in New Jersey. Jared currently resides in Livingston, and Cameron lives in Little Falls.

It was February 11, 2014 when Jared successfully donated 65 percent of his liver to Cameron, who was living with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC is a rare and chronic autoimmune disease that causes scarring and inflammation to the bile ducts of the liver. It was a life-saving event, and both livers regenerated back to full size and functionality within a few months. At the time Jared was 26, and Cameron, 23.

As they reflect on this anniversary, the brothers are using this time to amplify their commitment to raising awareness about living organ donation, especially with National Donor Day, February 14.

National Donor Day focuses on spreading awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation. For the Wohl brothers, it is an important reminder of the life-changing impact that organ donation - particularly living donation - can have.

“Looking back on our 11-year journey, we’re passionate than ever about encouraging others to learn about organ donation, and living donation in particular,” said Jared Wohl.

“Our hope is that by sharing our story, we can inspire more poeple to register as organ donors, and have the conversation with their families about giving the gift of life,” said Cameron Wohl.

Last year, the Wohl brothers made a $10,000 donation to the Sharing Network Foundation to support the new Joseph S. Roth Simulation Training Center, which helps equip healthcare professionals with the skills to optimize organ donation efforts.

Through their organization, The Wave Set, and ongoing advocacy, the Wohls continue to educate the public and push for greater awareness about the power of living donation. In 2016, the brothers created a documentary, “65 Percent” which details the impact of organ donation. The documentary, which also featured a song from Jared’s album, can be viewed at sharingnetworkfoundation.org/the-wave-set.

For more information about becoming an organ and tissue donor visit njsharingnetwork.org.

Source: West Essex Tribune, February 13, 2015, p. B-2

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