Thousands gathered in New Providence on June 7 for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk
PHOTO CAPTION – Members of “Team JT’s 5K YESSIR” at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life (Photo Credit: Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network)
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
(NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.) – Thousands gathered in New Providence on June 7 for NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF-sanctioned race, presented by MTF Biologics. The event, which is one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events, brought together organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, living donors, and volunteers united by a shared commitment to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation. Funds raised will support the Sharing Network Foundation’s efforts to advance clinical innovation, provide family support, and expand public education and awareness programs.
Family members and friends of the late Johnathan Richard Torres, 21, of Maywood, NJ, walked together as part of “Team JT’s 5K YESSIR” to honor his memory and celebrate his lifesaving impact as an organ and tissue donor.
Johnathan, affectionately known as “JT,” passed away in July 2025. He was remembered as an outgoing, energetic, and compassionate young man whose bright spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. A 2022 graduate of Hackensack High School, Johnathan was pursuing a degree in Business Administration at Bergen County Community College and had a strong passion for finance, trading, and cars.
Above all, Johnathan was known for his love of people. He had a natural ability to make others feel seen, valued, and cared for, and his laughter, music, and vibrant personality could light up any room. Whether spending time with friends and family, attending car meets, or working on his beloved Mustang GT, Johnathan lived life with enthusiasm and heart.
Johnathan’s legacy continues through his decision to be an organ donor, a choice that helped save and enhance lives and provided hope to others.
“Johnathan’s story doesn’t end at loss. It transforms into hope, into life, into a promise I made to him: his light would never stop shining,” said his mother, Selena Bohan.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans—including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents—are currently awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant. One organ and tissue donor can save 8 lives and enhance the lives of over 75 others. To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
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