On Saturday, March 29, The Eye-Bank participated in the 28th annual Transplant Recipients International Organization (TRIO) “Remember and Rejoice” ecumenical service at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan. Approximately 2,000 members of the transplant community—transplant recipients, donor families, and professionals – were in attendance. The event serves as a tribute to donors and their families and as a celebration of the sight-saving and life-changing gifts of eye, organ and tissue donation.
The ceremony began as the hymn “Amazing Grace,” played by the NYPD Emerald Society Bagpipers, echoed throughout the cathedral. A welcome message from Lorrinda Gray-Davis, president of TRIO, was followed by the heartfelt stories of donor family members and transplant recipients.
Cornea transplant recipient and Eye-Bank volunteer Oscar Martinez Ruiz was among the event’s featured speakers. He shared his gratitude for receiving the gift of sight. A visual media professional, Oscar described how devastated he was when a corneal ulcer caused by a contact lens threatened his vision and grew so severe that he almost lost his eye.
Thankfully, Oscar’s ophthalmologist recommended a cornea transplant.
“I am immensely grateful. This incredible gift has brought light, color, and a new perspective to my daily activities.”
These personal stories were followed by a candle-lighting ceremony and a rose ceremony.
Eye-Bank Communications Director Maria Chelko and TRIO Vice President Ira. J. Copperman read the names of approximately 250 eye, organ and tissue donors, many whose families were in attendance. The event concluded with blessings from religious leaders of various faiths.
The Eye-Bank is grateful to TRIO’s Manhattan Chapter for organizing this unique and meaningful event, to Oscar for sharing his story, and to all the donors and their families whose generosity restores sight, provides healing and saves lives.
A full recording of the Remember and Rejoice service is available on YouTube.
Oscar’s story is available on our website.