On New Year’s Day, heart and tissue transplant recipient Michael Rizzo of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, was a participant in the world’s most visible campaign to inspire organ and tissue donation. Rizzo served as a float rider on OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade® float in Pasadena, California.
Rizzo was able to participate in the parade with help from a sponsorship by the Sharing Network Foundation and NJ Sharing Network’s tissue partner, MTF Biologics.
“Being part of the Rose Parade was an extraordinary opportunity to honor my organ and tissue donors and share the lifesaving impact of their generosity,” said Rizzo. “It was humbling to meet so many people from throughout our nation whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation.”
Rizzo dedicated his life to helping others as a paramedic and police officer, however, his life was changed when a devastating arm fracture nearly put an end to his career. However, thanks to the generosity of a donor, Rizzo’s arm was successfully reconstructed and he could continue helping others.
Years later, another challenge arose for Rizzo, this time being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition. Rizzo was given a second chance at life thanks to an organ donor that saved his life.
Rizzo now volunteers at NJ Sharing Network and MTF Biologics, advocating for organ and tissue donation. His story is one that sheds light on the positive impacts that can come from such donation.