2016 George Grimm

George Grimm_Donor Network WestGEORGE GRIMM

Heart and Kidney Recipient

Age 62 ~ Salinas, CA

Produce/Transportation Broker

Honored by donornetworkwest.org

George received the greatest gift when his best friend, Freddie, chose to directly donate his brother Sisto’s heart and kidney to him.  George was 60 years old and living with the assistance of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD).  George has always had a passion for helping and inspiring others, especially youth. For over 35 years, he coached youth and high school sports while also acting as a league administrator.  Today, he treasures life like never before and thanks God that his friend had the strength to make such a difficult decision.  This new lease on life allows George the opportunity to continue with his passion of helping others by spreading the word of organ donation and taking care of his two grandsons.

George’s Story

I am from Salinas California and had a heart and kidney transplant on February, 25 2014. Five years ago, my health began to deteriorate. I was 60 years old and living with the assistance of a LVAD but my life was saved by my friend’s brother. He was my donor! .  I have been involved in youth and high school sports for over 35 years coaching baseball (my passion) and football. I have also been a league administrator for over 25 years. For the past 10 years, I have been raising my two grandsons: one is 14 and the other 16. My passion is to help kids, especially those with disabilities.

One of my many other passions is making people aware of their health issues…if you have questions for your health professional ask them for answers or have them help you find an answer.  If a visiting doctor had not been at my side I might not be here today. I cherish life like never before and I thank God that my donor family had the strength to make the decision to save my life through direct donation of their loved one’s heart and kidney. I am working diligently to make as many people aware of organ donation…and the importance of the gift of life. With this new lease on life (my best friend calls it all an adventure) I have found love that I have never felt before; love for family, friends, and for others.