04/22/2026
In 2017, Caitlin Nelson, a vibrant 20-year-old, passed away. Caitlin’s legacy lives on through Sonia Carlen, who celebrated the 9th anniversary of her double-lung transplant on April 4.
“She had told me that if anything ever happened to her, she wanted to donate her organs. She’d say, ‘you can’t take them with you’ and someone else could use them to live on. That was who she was — always thinking of others, even in unimaginable circumstances," said Rosanne Nelson, Caitlin’s mother. "Knowing Caitlin’s wish to donate her organs and tissue to help others brings us comfort. Even in our darkest moment, Caitlin gave others hope."
At the same time, Sonia Carlen was fighting for her life. In 2015, at just 27 years old, Sonia was diagnosed with a rare lung disease. Doctors explained that the condition was terminal and gave her a life expectancy of just three to five years. That was until she got the call that she would be receiving the gift of life.
“I call Caitlin my hero and my angel,” said Sonia. “Because of her generosity and compassion for others, I am alive today. There are no words that can fully express my gratitude.”
In the years since, Sonia and Caitlin’s family have formed a meaningful and lasting connection.
“Meeting Caitlin’s family was one of the most emotional moments of my life,” said Sonia. “They welcomed me with open arms. We share a bond that is incredibly special.”
For Rosanne, seeing Sonia healthy has brought a sense of peace. “Seeing Sonia live her life is a beautiful reminder of who Caitlin was,” said Rosanne. “It shows us that her spirit and generosity continue to make a difference.”
Register as an organ and tissue donor today at www.NJSharingNetwork.org/Register 💙💚
