Marco Martinez

Family and friends as you know our family is currently experiencing one of the most life-changing challenges. In 2020 I, Marco Martinez, husband, father, and son, was diagnosed with stage 4 auto-immune induced kidney failure. While monitoring my diet and blood levels has helped slow progression, just this past year in 2024 my levels have drastically dropped now putting me at stage 5 kidney failure. Our last 4 years have been filled with continuous doctor appointments, referrals, tests, prescriptions, surgeries, and soon-to-start dialysis. Jillana and I are learning our new lifestyles with a Perotineal Dialsys(PD) port. I am currently on the Colorado Donate Life Kidney list; however, statistically speaking it will be roughly 5 years before I will receive a donor.I am a father of 3 handsome sons and a beautiful wife who gives me a reason to continue pushing forward and fighting. I was born in the Yucatan Peninsula and moved to the United States of America when I was 11 for a better life and the “American Dream.” Leaving my estranged family behind was not easy; however, I knew it was a good decision for my future. With a small support system, I learned how to overcome obstacles, but nothing prepared me for this diagnosis. I am proud to call this Country my home here, I have built a beautiful life. Even with all the chaos of juggling this new challenge, mentally, emotionally, and physically, I am still working to support my family. Unfortunately, while we are a dual-income household, with the medical bills continuing to rise and limited hours in the day to be present Father and employee, we are asking for community support. We are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to assist with medical expenses associated with kidney failure, dialysis, transplant, and recovery. I have chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses.Thank you, and may God bless you all.Marco Martinez #FatherOf3NeedsAKidney