Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, serves as a reminder of the significant contributions of Hispanic Americans in various fields. This year, NJ Sharing Network, the non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donation, is highlighting the story of Nancy “Zoeh” Arana, a kidney transplant recipient from Roselle, NJ. Zoeh’s life is a testament to the power of organ donation, and her story is one of resilience, hope, and giving back.
Organ donation is a critical issue within the Hispanic community. According to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), over 22,000 Hispanic individuals are currently on the national organ transplant waiting list. In 2023, about 15% of all organ donors in the U.S. were Hispanic. While this number is steadily growing, it still lags behind the demand for lifesaving transplants within the community.
A Life-Saving Gift
Nancy “Zoeh” Arana was born in El Salvador and immigrated to the United States with her family, enjoying a healthy childhood. However, her life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with kidney failure, a condition that required her to undergo dialysis treatments. Despite maintaining a hopeful outlook, she realized that her only chance of survival was a kidney transplant.
“I remember writing down my thoughts, memories, and important life lessons in a notebook for my daughter, Nancy, because I did not think I was going to live much longer. I was clinging to every bit of hope I could find,” said Zoeh.
Zoeh’s prayers were answered when a friend of her husband, Carlos, connected them with the family of a young man who had tragically passed away in an accident. The young man’s mother, moved by Zoeh’s need for a kidney, made the selfless decision to donate her son’s kidney to Zoeh, giving her the gift of life.
“I am forever grateful to my donor and his mother. Their incredible generosity not only saved my life but also inspires me every day. I am committed to honoring their gift and my donor’s legacy,” said Zoeh.
A Life Dedicated to Giving Back
Since receiving her transplant, Zoeh has dedicated her life to giving back. She actively supports her church and leads mission work in El Salvador and Colombia. Alongside her husband, Carlos, she has also served as a foster parent, providing love and support to children in need.
Zoeh’s path to NJ Sharing Network began when she was working at a nonprofit focused on mental health. While she enjoyed her work, she felt a calling to expand her impact. Now, as a member of the NJ Sharing Network team, Zoeh uses her personal experience to connect with diverse communities, raise awareness about organ and tissue donation, and inspire hope in those waiting for transplants.
“Being a part of the NJ Sharing Network team feels like another perfect match, just like my kidney,” said Zoeh. “Every day, I’m grateful to be part of an organization that saves and enhances lives. To think that 18 years ago, I was sick and struggling, and now I’m helping others learn about the power of organ and tissue donation—it’s truly the perfect circle.”
A Family of Organ Donors
Zoeh’s connection to organ donation does not stop with her own story. Her sister also received a kidney transplant after battling a rare kidney disorder. In a touching full-circle moment, their mother, moved by the gift of life her daughters received, altruistically donated one of her kidneys to a stranger in need.
“We are a family that is all-in when it comes to organ donation,” said Zoeh. “My mom’s decision to donate to a stranger truly symbolizes what organ donation is about—giving life, even to those we may never meet.”
Breaking Down Barriers
The need for organ donors remains critical. Nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are currently waiting for lifesaving transplants. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), one organ and tissue donor can save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of more than 75 people. However, the opportunity to donate is rare, as less than 1% of all deaths meet the criteria for organ donation.
For the Hispanic community, there are additional barriers. Myths and misinformation surrounding organ donation, such as the fear that doctors will not work as hard to save registered donors or concerns about religious prohibitions, have contributed to lower donor registration rates.
“Unfortunately, there are some common myths and misinformation that have contributed to a lower registration rate within our Hispanic communities,” said Zoeh. “By sharing my story, I hope we can help break down these barriers and ensure that more lives are saved.”
Zoeh’s advocacy work, particularly within Hispanic communities, is critical to overcoming these challenges. Her personal experience resonates with individuals who may have reservations about organ donation, and her message is clear: organ donation is a gift of life, and everyone has the potential to make a difference.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond, NJ Sharing Network honors individuals like Zoeh, whose stories highlight the life-changing power of organ donation and transplantation. To learn more, get involved, and join the National Donate Life Registry as an organ and tissue donor, visit
www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
