About Us
Riley’s Dance was created to honor and remember the unique and special life of our five-year-old daughter, Riley Kogen, whom we lost too soon.
Riley gave the gift of life to two women who received her kidneys. Her gift saved not only two people, but their entire families as well. This final act of love has inspired us to continue supporting organ and tissue donation and transplantation.
Riley was the most gentle and kind-hearted little girl to ever walk this earth. Her smile alone could light up the room. She had the most infectious laugh and the brightest blue eyes you had ever seen. She lived for her friends, family, and, most of all, her little brother Connor. She loved to spend her afternoons playing dress up, hula-hooping, and dancing. Riley died two days after her 5th birthday. We will forever celebrate her life as if she was still here. She impacted all that knew her, and her memory will live on in all of us.
Our Inspiration
Our story began through NJ Sharing Network as they approached us one evening as we sat helpless over Riley’s bedside. They had come to discuss the possibility of donating her organs to save a life. We felt that the gift of life was something special we could do to ensure that Riley’s memory lives on – so we were on board. As it turns out, both of Riley’s kidneys were able to save individuals suffering from kidney disease.
Riley’s Dance will delegate funds to families needing significant medical coverage and those pursuing financial aid. This will benefit those disadvantaged at a very pressing and stressful time. Every individual deserves the opportunity to dance again, just as our beautiful daughter used to.
This is the start of Riley’s Dance.
Our Impact
Through our partnership with the NJ Sharing Network Foundation, and the University Miami's Miller School of medicine we are committed to helping patients with brighter future. Your generous support has already impacted so many lives:
- Crisis funds have been established at all six Transplant Centers in New Jersey.
- We have granted over 30 crisis fund requests to transplant patients and their families to help them through this stressful time.
- We have been able to assist with transportation, medication, housing, and many other expenses.
- We share our story with hospitals and transplant centers across the state and continue to speak to NJ PICU Departments about the importance of donation.
- Riley is featured as part of the exhibit on organ and tissue donation and transplantation at Liberty Science Center.
- We funded a children’s book, “Running for Riley,” that educates younger generations on organ and tissue donation by sharing Riley’s story.
- Provides transportation assistance to and from medical centers through their Uber partnership.