Michael Strusiak

Organ recipient

Age 60 – Basking Ridge, NJ

Honored by NJ Sharing Network

Michael Strusiak received the gift of life 10 years ago, at age 50, and since then, he has continued to honor his donor, Kristen O’Hara, in every way possible. After decades of living as a Type 1 diabetic, followed by a diagnosis of renal cancer resulting in years of dialysis, Michael was blessed with a new kidney and pancreas. He continues to thrive, treasuring every day and thanking his donor and her family for making it all possible. He carries his energetic spirit wherever he goes, never missing an opportunity to promote organ donation and share his story.

Michael will be forever grateful to his donor and Angel, Kristen, and the O’Hara family who made the decision to give the gift of life in their deepest hours of grief. This gift has allowed Michael to celebrate with his four daughters as they graduated college.

Michael’s Story

Michael Strusiak was given the gift of life 10 years ago, at age 50 and has continued to honor his donor, Kristen O’Hara, in every way possible. After decades of living as a Type 1 diabetic, followed by a diagnosis of renal cancer resulting in years of dialysis, Michael was blessed with a new kidney and pancreas. He continues to thrive, treasuring every day and thanking his donor and her family for making it all possible. He carries his energetic spirit wherever he goes, never missing an opportunity to promote organ donation and share his story.

As a co-manager of Team Liberty, Michael is instrumental in raising funds and hosting events to assist athletes with the cost of participation in the Transplant Games. He is also a sought out speaker for such events as the Open Ceremonies at the Houston Transplant Games, Garden of Life Dedications at Jersey Shore Medical, High School Heroes and Hospital Presentations. Since the onset of the 5K Celebration of Life 7 years ago, he has continued to honor his donor through his Team—Kristen’s Crusaders. This past year, Michael faced a health challenge when he was diagnosed with Lymphoma. During surgery and treatment, he refused to have anything disrupt his schedule and passion for the promotion of organ donation. In between treatments he hosted his annual Team Liberty Golf Outing and participated in the 5K Celebration of Life. Shortly after, he was given a clean bill of health by medical professionals, who credited his strength and positive outlook as instrumental in his healing.

Michael will be forever grateful to his donor and Angel, Kristen, and the O’Hara family who made the decision to give the gift of life in their deepest hours of grief. This gift has allowed Michael to celebrate with his four daughters as they graduated college. He was blessed to walk 3 of them down the aisle and now enjoys 3 grandchildren. He also met the love if his life and will be married in June. Michael is a NJ native, a horticulturist by trade, currently in the field of sales.