Help Ernie Ramirez Find a Living Kidney Donor

A Lifetime of Serving Others. Now I Need Your Help.

My name is Ernie Ramirez.

For 37 years, I proudly served our community as a firefighter with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, helping people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Today, I find myself in need of that same kindness and generosity.

I have end-stage renal (kidney) disease and am in urgent need of a living kidney donor.

A husband, father and grandfather, I am married to Michele, my wife of 31 years. We have 2 adult children and 6 grandchildren. My family is everything to me.

In addition to my years of public service, I continue to stay active in my community. For the past eight years, I have volunteered with the Los Angeles County Fire Museum, serving on its Board of Directors since 2019. After serving as Vice President, I am currently honored to serve as President of the Board. 

I am also a member of St. Timothy Catholic Church in Laguna Niguel, where I serve as an usher at the 7:00 a.m. Sunday Mass. As a member of the Knights of Columbus, I enjoy supporting our parish and helping wherever I can, especially the Fish Frys'.

For several years, I have been battling kidney disease. During the past two years, my kidney function has declined significantly. Although I am not yet on dialysis, my doctors expect that I will need it soon unless I receive a kidney transplant. My greatest hope is to receive a transplant before dialysis becomes necessary.

How You Can Help

I know that becoming a living kidney donor is an extraordinary gift, and I understand it is a significant decision. If you feel called to learn more, I would be deeply grateful if you would take a few minutes to explore the information below.

Learn About Living Kidney Donation

Please watch this short video from UCI Health:

"Talking About Living Donation with Dr. Redfield"

https://youtu.be/KnkBeoKO6H4?si=RMNHqMEiB9bF6muk

Register to Be Screened

If you would like to see whether you could be a compatible donor, please complete the confidential online screening form:

https://ucihealth.donorscreen.org/register/now/index.html

There is no financial cost to the donor. Medical expenses related to the donation process are covered through my insurance.

Information You'll Need During Registration

• Transplant Center: UCI Health

• Recipient: Ernie Ramirez

• Date of Birth: September 17, 1959

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering this life-changing gift. Whether you are able to donate, share this page with others, or simply keep me in your prayers, your support means more than words can express. 

Please feel free to reach out to me with questions or words of support at ernestramirez@cox.net

May God bless you and your family,

Ernie Ramirez