Anonymous Letter to Memo: I Want to Be Your Kidney Donor
*By Patricia Contreras
WoodlandStories Magazine presents this inspiring story, full of courage, faith, and hope. Juan Guillermo Hurtado (Memo) and his wife, María Isabel Quintero, have endured a very challenging journey, but today, they share with us a life-affirming and inspiring message.
“My story is not just mine; it’s the story of my entire family,” explains Memo, referring to the obstacles he has faced throughout his life, such as dialysis, heart attacks, and cancer. But his testimony is even more remarkable because behind it all lies his fight for a kidney transplant. In the United States, more than 90,000 people are waiting for a kidney donation, with only about 5,000 to 6,000 transplants performed annually. But what makes Memo’s story truly striking is the turn his life took when a brave stranger decided to donate a kidney to save his life.
The Unexpected Gift of a Brave American
“I had to be on dialysis for three years without kidneys. I couldn’t urinate, eat, or sleep properly. And all of that, without knowing if I would ever find a donor,” Memo shares. It was in a moment of despair that the father of a classmate from his daughters’ school found out about his situation and decided to perform an incredible act of kindness: to donate a kidney, even though they had never met, demonstrating that true acts of love and generosity have no boundaries.
“This American man didn’t know me, and yet he decided to give me his kidney. He told me it was an easy decision because he wanted to make a difference in someone’s life. His family supported him, and his love for his daughter was so great that they didn’t hesitate to save another family,” Memo says.
This story not only speaks of a generous donor but also highlights the importance of awareness about organ donation. “Many don’t know that they can donate while alive, like a kidney or a liver. It’s essential that people inform themselves and realize that with a simple act, they can save lives,” says María Isabel.
God Has Given Me Peace
Despite the challenges, Memo continues his fight. During the transplant process, his body had to adapt to the new kidney, receiving immunosuppressive medication to prevent rejection. “It’s a difficult process, but nothing compared to what I went through during dialysis. Rejection is a possibility, and my body needs time to accept the organ. Every day is a battle, but I’m no longer alone.”
“God has given me this peace,” Memo says with a serene gaze. He and his family have gone through moments of uncertainty and pain, but also moments of reconciliation and hope. “My wife has been my rock, my daughters have learned to value life and never give up, and now we are closer than ever.”
Memo and María Isabel’s journey is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of human solidarity. They are committed to sharing their story to inspire others to never give up, to never lose hope, and to always give their best.
Life is More Than Money
“Love, serving, and giving are what truly fill us. We realize that when you help others, everything else makes sense. Life is more than materialism; it’s a path of selflessness and sacrifice”.
Today, Memo and María Isabel invite us to reflect on the importance of valuing what truly matters. Life, health, and love for others are the greatest gifts we have.
Don’t forget to follow us on our social media for more stories like this one, because if Memo could, you can too.
*Journalist with over 25 years of experience in various media outlets, holding a postgraduate degree as a Specialist in Public Opinion and a Master’s in Political Science with an emphasis on Public Policy.
She is also the founding director of WoodlandStories Magazine.
