Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) was proud to join Donate Life New York State and members of the community for the annual Donate Life Legacy Walk in Saratoga Springs on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025. Smullen also had the opportunity to speak at this event and share his beloved late son Alexander John “AJ” Smullen’s Donate Life story. AJ donated organs to five families in need after his untimely death on March 6, 2024, following a fierce fight in the Pediatric ICU after being hit by a car on Feb. 22, 2024.

“AJ is my hero,” said Smullen. “I am so grateful to have the opportunity to continue to tell his courageous story and hopefully inspire others to help save lives by participating in the Donate Life program. There are nearly 8,000 patients in New York state who remain on the national organ transplant waitlist, and each year, thousands die while waiting for a suitable donor. That is why I encourage every New Yorker who has not already done so to register to Donate Life New York State and help increase the donor pool.

“I’d like to thank Donate Life New York State for organizing this incredible event each year. The Donate Life Legacy Walk brings the community together to remember and celebrate those, like my son AJ, who gave the ultimate gift to those in need. These heroes continue to touch so many lives each and every day and have given countless families hope through their sacrifice. I am forever proud of my son and every individual who has given the gift of life.”