Two kidney transplant recipients and their donors who were part of a paired kidney exchange in December met for the first time on Sunday, Jan. 20 — just weeks after their surgeries took place at Loma Linda University Medical Center.
These two families are forever united through the altruism of one Coachella valley man: Danny Morin. Morin was a match for his wife, Ana, and was slated to donate his kidney to her in early 2018. While this couple was a match, two brothers, Jesus Verduzco from Colton and Billy Verduzco, who was in the Marines stationed in Japan, were hoping for a match. Although Billy was willing to leave the Marines to donate to Jesus, their blood types were not compatible. The saving grace however was that Danny agreed to donate to Jesus instead of his wife who would in turn receive a kidney from Billy.
Michael E. De Vera, MD director of Loma Linda University Transplant Institute, said it is because of connections like this that Loma Linda University Health really pushes for living donors.
“These unique and special circumstances really highlight the mission of Loma Linda University Health,” De Vera says. “This is an example of going above and beyond to save more lives and make people whole.”
After waiting six years for a new kidney, Marin is now dreaming about having her first child and traveling with her husband.
Marin’s husband, Danny, said he is grateful he was able to save more than just his wife. He was able to save Jesus — a father, a husband and an entire family. “We are all now connected for life, and I am grateful to be a part of this amazing story,” he said.
Jesus had been on dialysis for two years until receiving his new kidney from Danny. He’s now ready to get back to work to support his family and watch his children grow up.
“The living kidney donor program gave me life — a second chance at life,” Jesus said. “I have no words because it is everything to me.”