News & Stories

Hi! I’m Venessa Menerey the new communications intern with Lifeline of Ohio. I’m a rising senior at Ohio Wesleyan University set to graduate in May 2016 with a B.A. in English and Journalism.

I’ve spent my entire life living in the community of Upper Arlington, OH with my parents, younger brother and yellow lab, Bella. My academic career at Ohio Wesleyan began in 2012 where I am not only a student, but also a D-III field hockey player.

My personal connection to organ and tissue donation comes from a close family friend, June. She is who I credit, in part, with helping to shape my brother and me into the people we are today.

In 2013, June’s friend Mark desperately needed a kidney transplant. A number of family members and other friends were tested to be a living donor for him, but there was not a suitable match until June. She generously gave one of her kidneys to save her friends’ life.

With her generous gift, June helped save the life of Mark – a husband, father and friend. I’m proud of her compassionate and brave decision to become a living donor.

Since obtaining my driver’s license I have been a registered organ, eye and tissue donor and felt reaffirmed in my decision when I recently renewed my license.

Through this internship I will be helping to share the stories behind the teams for the Dash for Donation and aiding Lifeline of Ohio’s mission to empower Ohioans to become registered organ, eye and tissue donors.  You can make a choice to say “Yes!” and help save a life or heal many. Register today at www.lifelineofohio.org.