John Cervantes suffered kidney problems from an early age, including surgery at age 14 for bilateral kidney stone removal. While John experienced infections off and on for two decades, he didn't let it get in the way of his dream to be a police officer. In 2009, after a bad infection led to a dramatic drop in kidney function, John went on dialysis and his transplant journey began. His brother Michael ended up being a match, and the transplant made a world of difference to John. "The next day after the transplant, I felt amazing – so much more energy!" John thanks his family, the Chino Police Department (his employer of 12 years) and God for his life.

John's Story

From the time he was a kid, John Cervantes knew he wanted to be a police officer. He also knew a career in police work would not be a given, as he suffered kidney problems from an early age, including surgery at age 14 for bilateral kidney stone removal.

It was clear a kidney transplant might be needed at some point in the future, and John's brother Michael was certain that when that time came he would be his donor. "He would say, 'It's a no-brainer. I'm doing it,'" recalled John.

While John experienced infections off and on, "I didn't let it interrupt my life," he said. "I focused on what I needed to do, and I kept it private because I didn't want it to interfere with my dream, to be a police officer," said John, who is now in his 17th year in law enforcement and 12th with his hometown Chino Police Department.

In 2009, after a bad infection led to a dramatic drop in kidney function, John went on dialysis and his transplant journey began. "Loma Linda was amazing, educating us about what a transplant entailed and walking us through the process," said John. While Michael ended up being a match, his wife of 25 years and his son both offered to donate a kidney. "I've been very fortunate to have tremendous family support every step of the way."

Receiving Michael's kidney made a world of difference to John. "The next day after the transplant, I felt amazing – so much more energy!" The Chino Police Department has been family to John as well. "They welcomed me back to work four months after the transplant."

"Through this process, I thank God and am happy to honor Him as I live every day to my fullest," said John gratefully.