by Gary Mignone
ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS, NJ – As Ed Tomney, 64, celebrates the 20th anniversary of his life-saving pancreas transplant, he reflects on the miracle of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.
Ed, who is using a walking cane since having his leg amputated three years ago, exemplifies strength and perseverance. Throughout his life, he has experienced both joyful moments and challenging times. In addition to his loving partner of 18 years, June Droussiotis, his daughters Brittany and Amanda, their spouses, and his five grandchildren, he is forever grateful for their support.
“Every day, I wake up and feel fortunate to enjoy life with my supportive family,” said Ed. “Many years ago, I was told that I would not live much longer. I’ve always had a great support system. June is the most wonderful woman in the world. She has stuck by me even during the most difficult times. I have been able to walk both of my daughters down the aisle and enjoy a lot of laughs with my grandchildren.”
Ed was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was just five years old. This chronic condition plagued him throughout his childhood and into his adulthood.
His health concerns worsened, and he was placed on the pancreas transplant waiting list in 2002. Six months later, Ed received ‘the call’ for a transplant at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.
“My transplant surgery was on Christmas Day 2002. It was the best gift anyone could ever receive – the ultimate gift of life,” said Ed. “My organ donor was a 17-year-old young man who passed away following a tragic car accident. He is my hero, and I stay in close touch with his family to always remind them that I am forever grateful.”
Ed became a passionate advocate for NJ Sharing Network, an organization that recovers and places donated organs and tissues in the Garden State after his transplant. In order to encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors, he shares his story of hope with others. “Just one organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and improve the lives of over 75 others,” he said.
In spite of Ed’s transplanted pancreas’ good health, he is currently suffering from other serious health concerns that have limited his mobility. He is on dialysis, has lost kidney function, and is waiting for a kidney transplant. Despite all of the challenges he faces, Ed inspires those around him by staying positive.
“It’s been an interesting journey and I am a very lucky man,” said Ed. “Over the years, I have learned to adjust and keep moving forward. I am also fortunate to have such an amazing family, loved ones, and even my crazy dogs around me as a support system to keep me going.”
As of right now, over 100,000 Americans need a life-saving organ transplant, with nearly 4,000 of them being residents in New Jersey. Nonetheless, the people of the Garden State are generous in providing hope for these individuals. In fact, last year alone a record-breaking 283 donors provided 670 organs within the state. For more information regarding how to support this cause and register as an organ and tissue donor yourself, go to www.NJSharingNetwork.org.