Juan Federico Martinez, a retired Border Patrol agent and Del Rio police officer, is in urgent need of a kidney donor. Martinez, who has dedicated 33 years to protecting his community, has been battling primary FSGS, a disease that can lead to kidney failure, for 13 years. Despite 17 potential donors stepping forward, all were ultimately disqualified due to pre-existing health issues. Martinez, known for his humor and love for fishing and building barbecue pits, now faces a daily struggle with pain and fatigue, relying on dialysis for survival.
Martinez’s wife of 24 years, Patricia, has been his steadfast support throughout this difficult journey. The couple hopes for a kidney transplant so they can enjoy retirement together. “I’m not done with life,” Martinez says, expressing his desire to travel and live fully once more. The community is being called upon to assist in finding a suitable donor. Those interested in helping can find more information on the Ken 5 website.
