GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A Grand Rapids mother has a big favor to ask of someone in the community.
Seven years ago, Angelina Martinez went to the doctor for a checkup and bloodwork after not feeling quite right. Soon after, she was told she was in heart failure.
Given no reason why and as if the news wasn't bad enough, two years later she found out she was in kidney failure.
"I received a call from a doctor stating I had to come in within four hours or I wasn't going to survive," said Martinez.
Holding back tears, she told 13 ON YOUR SIDE it was traumatizing to think of sharing the news with her children.
Now, the mom has been on dialysis three times a week for about five years. Each session is about five hours and she can't live without it.
You may be wondering, why not get on the transplant list? Unfortunately, Martinez's heart was functioning so poorly that she didn't initially qualify. After several years of lifestyle changes, however, that changed about six months ago.
Thanks to a push from her children, Martinez is now asking anyone to consider making the grandest of gestures with a kidney donation. Her family shared a flyer on Facebook explaining her need and some have already answered the call.
While she hasn't found a match yet, she said, "it really just gave me hope. And it made me so happy. It was uplifting each time."
Martinez said she's hopeful and excited for a life after transplant.
"I never realized how just simply living your life is just wonderful."
Once back on her feet, she wants to help others in her current shoes.
"A new kidney for me, I feel like it would benefit other people in the future," she said. "I would live graciously and appreciatively always."
To get tested to see if you are a match for Martinez, call the Trinity Kidney Transplant Center at 616-685-6899.
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