Mohawk Valley Times

Assemblyman Robert Smullen and his colleagues from the Assembly and Senate held a press conference in Albany to mark Donate Life Month in New York state. The event took place on April 8, 2025, and featured representatives from Donate Life New York State and community members.

During the conference, Smullen shared the story of his late son, Alexander John “AJ” Smullen. AJ Smullen became an organ donor after his death in March of 2024, helping five families in need.

There are nearly 8,000 patients in New York state currently on the national organ transplant waitlist. Each year, many die while waiting for a transplant due to the lack of suitable donors.

Smullen emphasized the importance of registering as organ donors to help increase the donor pool. He stated, “Through our family’s tragedy, five other families were given hope.” Smullen added, “My son is a hero who continues to inspire and touch people’s lives each and every day. We miss him tremendously, but we know his sacrifice was not in vain."

Smullen encourages New Yorkers to join the Donate Life New York State program. "This month, I encourage every New Yorker to register as an organ, eye or tissue donor and participate in the Donate Life New York State program to help save as many lives as possible. Let us do everything we can to increase the donor pool each year and save other New York families from tragedy,” he said.

Footage of Assemblyman Robert Smullen speaking at the press conference is available online.