Lauren Shields, a passionate advocate for blood and organ donation, is seeking a second kidney transplant after receiving her first one in 2020
On Thursday, October 16, Rand Realty in New City, NY, hosted its first blood drive in honor of Lauren Shields. Lauren is a nationally recognized advocate for organ and blood donation and NYBC partner who has spent much of her life inspiring others to give the gift of life.
A double organ donation recipient and advocate for organ and tissue donation with LiveOnNY, Lauren is a tireless champion of blood donations with NYBC.
The drive was organized in partnership with Lauren’s mother, Jeanne, the branch manager for Rand Realty’s New City location. Members of the community and Jeanne’s Rand Realty colleagues ensured its success: the drive’s goal was 58 units of blood, and the final count was 72!
Several current and former elected officials stopped by the drive to lend their support: New York State Senator Bill Weber, Rockland County Executive Ed Day, and former New York State Senator David Carlucci. Senator Carlucci sponsored Lauren’s Law, which required individuals to answer the question of whether they would like to sign up as an organ donor when completing a DMV form.
Lauren received a heart transplant at eight years old after being diagnosed with viral myocarditis. She later underwent a kidney transplant in 2020, and now, at the age of 25, she is awaiting a second kidney transplant after her previous one was damaged. Despite the physical and emotional toll of her ongoing health battle, Lauren continues to dedicate herself to raising awareness about the critical need for organ and blood donors.
Lauren’s advocacy led to the signing of Lauren’s Law by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, which requires New Yorkers to specify whether they would like to be an organ donor when applying for or renewing their driver’s license. This law aims to increase organ donor registration and create awareness of the issue across the state. Lauren has also been a longstanding partner of NYBC, using her story to inspire and encourage others through speaking engagements and community events that highlight the lifesaving power of blood and organ donation.