After learning his kidneys were failing, Joseph Vera began searching for a donor. The person who ends up changing his life is much closer than he thought.
TEXAS, USA – A Texas prison officer facing stage 5 kidney failure is now preparing to undergo Life-changing kidney transplant Thanks to an old friend and colleague for an extraordinary gift.
In February, Joseph Vera received devastating news. doctor Doctors told him that his kidney function was only 10% and he needed a transplant.
“It was just this weight on my chest, like this cloud on top of me,” Vera said.
That cloud has always been with him, running through every aspect of his life. The husband, father and Bexar County Jail officer found himself trading in his badge and uniform for a dialysis line as he endured a battle unlike any he’d faced on the job.
“I can’t go swimming in the harbor, and it’s summer and we often go to Schlitterbahn Lake in Fiesta, Texas,” Vera said. “Because it’s exposed, I can’t let it get wet and get infected.”
After learning her kidneys were failing, Vera began searching for a donor. But the person who ends up changing his life is much closer than he imagined.
“The day he was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure, we got on the phone and talked about it and I just said, ‘Hey, where do I sign up,'” Deputy José Calderón said.
Calderón, who works for the Bexar County Transportation Department, and Vera have been friends for 15 years. Their friendship and brotherhood led Calderon to make a decision that few face – becoming a living kidney donor.
“I didn’t hesitate because I knew he would do the same for me,” Calderon said.
Recently, Vera received more encouraging news from his nurse coordinator.
“She said our tentative date is July 1,” Vera said. “We’ve had numerous visits and tests.”
The upcoming transplant is more than just a medical procedure. For both men, it was a testament to friendship, loyalty and sacrifice.
Support Vela’s journey Also from the community where he served for many years. Donate through fundraiser Help ease the financial burden as he prepares for surgery and recovery.
“I’m excited to have my friend back here at 100 percent,” Calderon said. “We are both girl dads. We will grow old together, raise our girls together, and life will continue to be great.”
As one man prepares to receive a new kidney, another prepares to donate one – proving heroes don’t always wear uniforms. Sometimes they stand by us like friends.
Joseph’s journey was not over yet. As he focuses on recovery and a healthier future, those wishing to support him can click here.
