Organ Donation Awareness Event Held at Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture

South Portland, Maine – New England Donor Services (NEDS) hosted an event at Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture on Thursday, April 30, 2026, to honor organ and tissue donors and recipients and to encourage increased donor registration across New England.

Honoring Donors and Raising Awareness

The event brought together organ donors, recipients, and representatives from the Maine Medical Center Transplant Program, as well as Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. NEDS aimed to highlight the critical importance of organ donation and to increase the number of registered donors in the region.

Personal Stories of Impact

The gathering held particular significance for the Rubin family, owners of Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture. Rob Rubin, President of the company, recently underwent a kidney and liver transplant after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. He received both transplants on September 27th of the previous fall. “I am living proof of the importance of organ donation,” Rubin stated.

Larry Rubin, CEO of Bernie & Phyl’s, is currently awaiting a living donor kidney due to a genetic kidney disease he was born with. “It’s become critical. I am actively looking for a living kidney donor. I want more time to enjoy more wonderful moments and be here to support my family,” he said.

New England Donor Services’ Impact

New England Donor Services has significantly increased the number of organ transplants in New England over the last six years, more than doubling the number of lives saved through organ donation.

How to Register as an Organ Donor

Individuals interested in registering as organ donors can find more information and register online through the New England Donor Services website.

Source: WGME, Munjoy Hill News, WHDH