10/15/2026
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we would like to honor grateful organ transplant recipients who live life to the fullest because of heroic donors who say ‘YES.’ Meet Jose, a grateful double lung transplant recipient. We had the honor of serving his heroic donor, Raquel, who gave him the ultimate gift. In 2021, Jose's life changed forever when he became critically ill with COVID-19. What followed was a journey marked by fear, uncertainty and a deep reliance on his faith. Through every challenge, Jose held on to hope and never stopped believing in the possibility of another tomorrow. Today, he is celebrating the gift of life as a lung transplant recipient. With renewed gratitude, health and purpose, Jose embraces each day knowing that his life was forever changed by the generosity of an organ donor. His gift came from, Raquel, whose selfless decision to be an organ donor gave Jose a second chance to live life with people he loves. Her legacy continues to live on through Jose, touching countless lives through the story he shares and the awareness he raises about organ, eye and tissue donation. Jose is also deeply grateful to Raquel's family, especially her husband, Gino, and daughter, Melody. Their compassion, support and willingness to connect with Jose has helped transform tragedy into a lasting legacy of hope. Through their friendship and generosity, Raquel's memory continues to inspire others to say "YES" to donation. Throughout Jose’s journey, he has never walked alone. By his side, every step of the way has been his wife, Anita, whose unwavering love, strength and support carried him through some of life's most difficult moments. Jose often says he could not have made it through this journey without her. As a proud member of the Hispanic community and a lifelong lowrider enthusiast, Jose found a unique way to honor his heroic donor's memory. He built a custom lowrider dedicated to Raquel which gives him a platform to share the message that organ donation saves lives. What began as a personal tribute has become a powerful tool for advocacy and education. It allows Jose to spark conversations about donation at car shows and community events. For Jose, every award earned and every conversation had means his car serves a greater purpose. It celebrates the gift of life, encourages others to register as donors and most importantly, honors his hero Raquel who gave him a second chance. Jose believes that if one person chooses to become a donor hero after hearing his story, then his mission is a success. Jose’s message to anyone facing a difficult season is simple… Do not give up! No matter how difficult the road may seem, it is only one chapter and not the end of your story. Jose encourages those waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant to hold on to faith, lean on those who love/support you and trust that brighter days lie ahead. During 2026 Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate Jose's commitment to ensuring Raquel’s legacy lives on, his faith, his gratitude and his resilience. Through advocacy, family and the gift of organ donation, Jose’s story is a powerful reminder that hope can flourish even in life's most challenging moments. Be a hero like Raquel by registering now: www.nvdonor.org
