New Jersey’s Missy Rodriguez Recognized During the 2024 Rose Parade in Pasadena

On New Year’s Day, liver transplant recipient Missy Rodriguez of Short Hills, NJ, was part of the world’s most visible campaign to inspire organ and tissue donation as she served as a float rider on OneLegacy’s Donate Life Rose Parade float in Pasadena, CA. Missy was selected to ride on the float by NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue for transplant in the Garden State.

“Being part of the Rose Parade was an overwhelming experience. I was honored to meet countless incredible people and spread our message about the power of organ and tissue donation and transplantation,” said Missy. “I felt my donor angel proudly watching from above as I rode on the float, sharing our message loud and clear. My own journey drives me to advocate for this cause. It’s about giving hope to those waiting for the gift of life.”

Rodriguez is a well-recognized community volunteer and advocate for donation and transplantation. She has been featured in dozens of television and print news media spotlights and acknowledged for her charitable efforts by local neighborhood businesses, alliances, and religious institutions. Her efforts have also been publicly recognized by the Township of Millburn, NJ, with an official proclamation. Rodriguez also participates in the Sharing Network Foundation’s 5K Celebration of Life and has won gold medals in tennis at the Transplant Games of America as a member of Team Liberty.

Rodriguez resides in Short Hills, NJ, with her husband, Brett, and their three sons, Jesse, Reece, and Mack