Daniel Medrano’s Kidney Transplant Journey: A Second Chance at Life

Daniel (Danny) Medrano’s journey began in January 2014 when, at just 34 years old, he was hospitalized due to a foot infection and soon diagnosed with acute kidney failure. “The antibiotics that were supposed to help me ended up causing my kidneys to fail,” Medrano recalls. “It was a devastating blow, especially after dealing with diabetes since 1995 and surviving a coma in 2012.”

In August 2019, Medrano received his life-saving kidney transplant at the hands of an unexpected hero—his wife’s cousin Bianca—on a date she personally chose August 13. “On my wife’s birthday, we received the greatest gift ever when Bianca told us, ‘I’m Danny’s kidney donor,’” he emphasizes. “She kept it a secret until the very end, saying, ‘It was all God. I prayed about it, and he made the transition easy.’”

Medrano acknowledges the challenges that came with his diagnosis including years of dialysis, debilitating vertigo and constant pain. “Receiving a kidney transplant changed everything—it gave me energy again, took away the need for dialysis and lifted those dietary restrictions,” he shares. “We trusted, we believed and God delivered. My kidney, which I call ‘Little Bibi,’ is doing great.”

“I’m forever grateful to the George Lopez Foundation,” Medrano adds. “In 2018, we won the George Lopez World Kidney Day Giveaway Contest—it was a dream come true. It gave us a platform to share our story and raise awareness about kidney disease.” He continues, “Becoming an organ donor is a powerful act of love and generosity. You can save lives, just like Bianca saved mine. It’s a simple decision that can make a world of difference!”

“By registering as an organ donor, you give hope and healing to those in need and create a lasting legacy of compassion.”