Memory Of Bridgewater Father Honored By Family, Friends In 5K Celebration

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Family members and friends of 32-year-old Ryan Joseph Amaral of Bridgewater came together to walk in a 5K to honor his memory and celebrate his lifesaving impact as an organ and tissue donor.

The NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF-sanctioned race, presented by MTF Biologics, was held in New Providence on June 7.

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The annual event brought together organ and tissue donor families, transplant recipients, living donors and volunteers to support organ and tissue donation and the families affected by it.

Among those participating were family members and friends of Amaral, who walked as "Ryan’s Arc Reactors."

The team honored Amaral’s memory and recognized his impact as an organ and tissue donor.

According to the NJ Sharing Network, the team name was inspired by Ryan’s love of Marvel and Iron Man and reflected how his family sees him as a continuing source of strength and inspiration.

NJ Sharing Network described the event as one of New Jersey’s largest and most recognized charitable 5K events.

Funds raised will support the Sharing Network Foundation’s work to advance clinical innovation, provide family support, and expand public education and awareness programs, according to the event information.

Amaral died in March 2026 following a tragic motorcycle accident.

He was born in Red Bank and raised in Edison. He was known for his big heart and his ability to bring energy and joy to the people around him, according to NJ Sharing Network.

Amaral is a devoted husband to Diana and their children, Valentina and Matteo.

Amaral was described as a wonderful friend who found his greatest happiness in the people he loved.

His family’s participation in the New Providence walk was framed as a way to carry forward his legacy of compassion and generosity.

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans are awaiting a lifesaving organ transplant, including nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents.

The organizations say one organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of more than 75 others.

Information about organ and tissue donation and donor registration is available at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.