After two kidney transplants, Daniel Ronco became a community volunteer. Noting that “I want to help other people who need help,” he supports a local food ministry, the local organ and tissue recovery agency, and his stroke-ridden mother.

Daniel's Story

In the summer of 1992, Daniel Ronco, now 50, was working as a grade checker and water truck driver. He began to feel ill, but he still went to work. His condition worsened over the next several months until he couldn’t even sleep lying down. Just going to check the mail became difficult.

Shortly before Christmas, Daniel went to Moreno Valley Hospital and Riverside General Hospital for evaluations. They reported that he was in kidney failure. He began dialysis and was placed on the national transplant list.

On September 21, 1994, Daniel received his first kidney transplant at St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino, CA. But three years later, this kidney was rejected. He already knew the drill -- the strict diet, medications, and the long wait for a new kidney. He didn’t give up. Less than two years later, Daniel received his second kidney transplant at Riverside Community Hospital in Riverside, CA.

Since then, Daniel has given back to his community in many ways. He volunteered with the National Kidney Foundation of Southern California and swam competitively at the U.S. Transplant Games in 2002, 2004 and 2006. He is also visible as a dedicated volunteer at Donate Life Rose Parade float decorating, serving there since the float’s inception in 2002. In February 2003, he became an Ambassador for OneLegacy, the organ and tissue recovery agency for the greater Los Angeles area.

“I want to thank both of my donors. The transplants changed my life, and I want to help other people who need help,” he acknowledged. In addition to his other volunteer work, Daniel works at a local food ministry, helping to feed parolees, the homeless and other people in need.

No matter who he helps, he does so with a smile. Lately, his focus has been caring for his mother, who recently suffered a stroke. “My mom is in seventh heaven because I am a float rider,” Daniel confirmed.