LiveOnNY Hosted Third Annual Donor Heroes 5K
The event brought together transplant recipients and donor families at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Philanthropy
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LiveOnNY hosted its third annual Donor Heroes 5K Run/Walk in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The gathering aimed to honor organ, eye, and tissue donors while raising public awareness.
Why it matters
The event serves as a platform to recognize the life-saving impact of organ donation. It unites donor families and transplant recipients to foster community support for the cause.
Max Azzerello, who became a donor in 2024, saved two lives through his kidney donation. Meanwhile, grand marshal Aeisha Reese has personally received two intestine transplants.
The players
LiveOnNY
This is the federally designated organ procurement organization serving the New York City metropolitan area.
Richard Azzerello
He served as a grand marshal for the event held in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Aeisha Reese
A transplant recipient who has undergone two intestine transplants, she served as a grand marshal for the run.
Shirley Chan
She acted as the emcee for the third annual Donor Heroes 5K Run/Walk.
Max Azzerello
He became an organ donor following his death in 2024, contributing two kidneys to save lives.
The details
The event featured grand marshals Richard Azzerello and Aeisha Reese, with emcee Shirley Chan leading the proceedings. Mr. and Mrs. Met also made an appearance to show support for the attendees, which included volunteers and transplant recipients.
Timeline
The third annual Donor Heroes 5K Run/Walk took place in September 2026.
Max Azzerello died and became a donor in 2024.
Aeisha Reese moved to New York City in 2014.
Market Landscape
Events like the Donor Heroes 5K highlight the critical role of local procurement organizations in supporting the national Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. This grassroots engagement is essential for maintaining the donation pipeline in a competitive healthcare environment.
Residents can support the local transplant community by registering as organ donors at official portals. The event provides a path for families to engage directly with local health advocacy.
The takeaway
Participating in community events helps normalize the conversation around organ and tissue donation. Interested individuals should consider registering as donors to potentially help those awaiting transplants.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support medical initiatives in New York City Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by QNS.
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