the staff of the Ridgewood blog
WESTWOOD, NJ — For more than a decade, Westwood Regional High School physics teacher Henry Chen has inspired students with his passion, humor, and endless dedication. Known to his students as their “Chendren,” Chen has built a reputation for staying late to tutor, fostering a tight-knit classroom community, and even hosting fun traditions like the annual Chen Awards.
Now, the community he has given so much to is coming together for him in his greatest time of need.
Chen, 36, was diagnosed six years ago with Stage 5 kidney disease. He requires dialysis treatments multiple times a week and has been waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant. While thousands of people across the U.S. are on similar waiting lists, doctors have told Chen that a transplant from a living donor would give him the best chance for long-term recovery.
Community Support and Fundraiser
Although Chen has not yet found a donor, the Westwood and Washington Township communities have rallied around him. A GoFundMe campaign launched by former student Daniel Shotkin has already raised nearly $24,000 to help cover medical costs, prescription medications, and transportation expenses.
“If you’ve ever been in Mr. Chen’s class, you know he isn’t your average teacher,” Shotkin wrote. “He goes above and beyond for his students, making physics one of the most memorable experiences at Westwood Regional.”
Westwood Board of Education member Jay Garcia echoed that sentiment, praising Chen’s “incredible strength, humility, and commitment” despite his health struggles.
How to Help
Chen has been on New York’s transplant waiting list for six years and is now joining New Jersey’s as well. While no suitable donors have been found within his family, he hopes a member of the extended community might be able to step forward.
“Donating a kidney is a very personal decision,” Chen acknowledged in a letter to the community. “But if I can get a kidney transplant from a friend or family member, it would give me the best chance for my health and my future.”
For more information about becoming a living kidney donor, Chen has directed people to the Transplant Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Potential donors can:
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Email: CBMCLivingDonor@rwjbh.org
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Call: 973-322-5346
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Visit: CBMCLivingDonor.org to complete a donor questionnaire
Chen also welcomes direct contact at chenry333@gmail.com.
As his former students, colleagues, and neighbors rally to his side, one thing is clear: Henry Chen has left an unforgettable mark on Westwood — and now, the community is determined to return the favor.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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