The sudden death of Anne Gulotta’s beloved husband Jay and his subsequent donation of organs, eyes and tissue led her to volunteer for Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network. In 2005, Anne won the “Echo of Life Award” from Gift of Hope for all her hard work. That year, Anne also saw the full impact of Jay’s gift of life when she met Julie, one of Jay’s kidney recipients.

Anne's Story

In May 2002, Anne Gulotta’s beloved husband Jay died suddenly, leaving her to decide whether or to donate his organs and tissues to those in need. The family had discussed organ donation when their children obtained their drivers’ licenses, easing the family’s decision to donate.

The story could have ended here for 50-year old Anne, a senior bond trader. Instead, she began volunteering for Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, the local organ and tissue recovery organization. A passionate advocate who speaks to medical professionals, students and community associations, Anne is an active member of her local hospital’s donation committee and has been featured in several publications.

In 2005, Anne won the “Echo of Life Award” from Gift of Hope for all her hard work. That year, Anne also saw the full impact of Jay’s gift of life when she met Julie, one of Jay’s kidney recipients. For Julie, Jay is the hero who gave her back her life.

Although Anne lost her best friend, she has found a new friend in Julie. It was not just Julie’s life that was touched through Jay’s donation, but that of her husband, their family and friends. “Life is fragile, and sometimes the decisions we are faced with in times of crisis are difficult to make,” said Anne. “Knowing that Jay lives on gives me strength to spread the word about organ donation.”