Barnegat Mom Honors Organ Donor Husband At NJ Sharing Network 5K

BARNEGAT, NJ — Jennifer Severin of Barnegat will lead “Team Big Mike” at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Sanctioned Race on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in New Providence.

The team was created to honor the life and legacy of her husband, Michael J. Severin, who became an organ donor after his death in February 2020 following a motor vehicle accident.

Michael Severin was 37 when he died, according to a press release. He was born in Point Pleasant, raised in Brick and later settled in Barnegat with Jennifer and their daughters, Liliana and Adalina. He worked for the Ocean County Utilities Authority and was involved in his union and the Free Masons.

“Michael was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone,” said Jennifer. “He was a devoted husband, an incredible father, and someone who truly loved life. Knowing that he was able to help others through organ donation brings us comfort and gives us a reason to keep sharing his story.”

The family said the team brings together a large circle of relatives and friends to celebrate Michael’s life and raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. Jennifer said her husband, known to loved ones as “Big Mike,” loved the outdoors, hunting and especially time with his family.

“Michael loved being a dad more than anything,” Jennifer added. “He was always making memories with our girls, always making people laugh, and always putting others first. That’s exactly how we want him to be remembered.”

The June 7 event will be held at NJ Sharing Network headquarters in New Providence. According to the announcement, the walk and race is one of New Jersey’s largest charitable 5K events and supports the Sharing Network Foundation while bringing together thousands of participants to honor organ and tissue donors.

“NJ Sharing Network’s 5K is something we look forward to because it’s not just about remembering Michael — it’s about honoring the gift of life,” said Jennifer. “Seeing so many families come together, all with their own stories, is incredibly powerful. It reminds us that even in loss, there is hope.”

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing and NJ Sharing Network, more than 100,000 Americans, including nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans, are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Information about the event, donations and donor registration is available through NJ Sharing Network and the Sharing Network Foundation websites.