2017 Edgar Hernandez

EDGAR HERNANDEZ

Kidney Recipient

Age 41 ~ Los Angeles, CA

Student

Honored by OneLegacy at onelegacy.org

30 years ago, Edgar came to the U.S. from Mexico with his family, carrying a dream to finish high school and learn English. He was a teenager with his own version of the American Dream. After dealing with several childhood health issues, his dream of continuing school in the U.S. was cut short. Edgar had developed a kidney infection that culminated in kidney failure resulting in weekly dialysis treatments. Edgar’s sister was the first to step forward, offering to be a living kidney donor. After other tests, results showed that both his sister and father were eligible donors. On April 3, 1998, Edgar received a second chance when his father’s kidney was successfully transplanted. 18 years later, Edgar enjoys his good health, is continuing his American Dream, and is an active OneLegacy Ambassador with many friends who have also been touched by organ, eye, and tissue donation.

Edgar’s Story

Edgar Hernández will be a OneLegacy-sponsored rider on the Donate Life Rose Parade Float.

30 years ago, Edgar came to the U.S. from Mexico with his family, carrying a dream to finish high school and learn English. He was a teenager with his own version of the American Dream. After dealing with several childhood health issues, his dream of continuing school in the U.S. was cut short. Edgar had developed a kidney infection that culminated in kidney failure resulting in weekly dialysis treatments.

During this difficult season, Edgar’s family began researching transplant hospitals. Edgar’s sister was the first to step forward, offering to be a living kidney donor. As they explored this option, Edgar’s health continued to decline. St. Vincent Medical Center was able to help Edgar and his family with the compatibility testing required for living donation. The results of these tests indicated that both Edgar’s sister and his father were a match!

On April 3, 1998, Edgar received a second chance when his father’s kidney was successfully transplanted.

Now, 18 years later as an active OneLegacy Ambassador Edgar enjoys good health and continues working to fulfill his American Dream. He has dedicated numerous hours as an Ambassador, and volunteers his time on a weekly basis at the Consulate General of Mexico to educate the Latino community on the importance of the Donate Life California Donor Registry. Through his Ambassadorship, Edgar has made lasting friendships with others who have been touched by organ, eye and tissue donation.

Reflecting on the generosity of his father’s gift of life, Edgar is grateful every day for the opportunity to work toward the fulfillment of his dreams. These dreams now include advocating for the life-saving mission of organ donation and transplantation though his ambassadorship with OneLegacy.