AtlantiCare and Donate Life Month

APRIL 2008

Dianne's Story

	Dianne, Joey, Joe and Megan Bottino

Dianne Bottino, data administrative assistant in Customer Service at AtlantiCare, never got the chance to experience the day when her husband received a donated liver that would save his life. Even though he was at the top of the waiting list, in February 2007, Joseph Bottino, Jr. passed away due to acute liver failure caused by Hepatitis C.

About 125 other New Jersey residents like Joe die each year waiting for donated organs. Currently, more than 4,200 New Jerseyans remain on the waiting list.

Bottino is crusading for organ donation throughout the state.

	AtlantiCare employee Diane Bottino shares her story in this Time Out for Health segment
	Related Links Gift of Life Donor Program New Jersey Hospital Association's Organ Donation Web Site New Jersey Sharing Network

“I know I can’t bring back my husband, but I can help save others who are waiting by urging more people to register as organ donors in the State,” said Bottino. “Joe’s death made one thing clear. We need more donors.”

She recently testified in support of the “New Jersey Hero Act.” The bill would make New Jersey the first state to require all new drivers and those renewing their license to either sign up as a donor or indicate that they have designated someone else to make the decision for them after their death. In addition, the New Jersey Hero Act requires donor education be added to public and professional school curricula.

“Joe loved holidays,” said Bottino. “So, it was only appropriate that the bill first passed the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee February 14 - Valentine’s Day and passed the full Senate March 17 - St. Patrick’s Day.”

Joe Bottino, who was a gourmet food server in the Atlantic City casinos and 24-year member of Local 54, began treatment for Hepatitis C in 2004.Hepatitis C is one of the most common causes of liver disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is the number one reason for liver transplant in the country. Joe was placed on the transplant waiting list in the spring of 2006, where he remained for 10 months.

Dianne and Joe Bottino would have been married 17 years this April. They have two children, Joey, 15 and Megan, 13.

April is Donate Life month. According to Gift of Life Donor Program, by becoming an organ donor, one person can enhance as many as 50 lives.

“There are many ways to help,” said Bottino. “Register as an organ donor with the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles. Talk to your family about your decision to become a donor so they are aware in the event of a tragedy. Spread the word to friends and loved ones.”

“Dianne’s message about becoming a donor and making others aware of your decision is so important,” said Alexander Axelrad, MD, FACS medical director, the Harrah’s Regional Trauma Center at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center City campus, Atlantic City , New Jersey . “At the Trauma Center , we witness the life-saving power of organ donation. Facing a loved one’s death – especially due to an unexpected or traumatic injury, can be devastating for families. Those who are aware their loved one wanted to be a donor can make the decision with comfort in knowing they honored their loved one’s wishes.”