Hello Brothers:
It has come to the attention of the National Executive Board that one of our brothers, Dyrlan Torrez (Beta Theta, Fall 2002), has become seriously ill and is in need of a kidney transplant. Brother Torrez was diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis at the age of 15, and doctors have recently informed him that his kidneys are only functioning at 9% of capacity. He consequently has less than 4 months to live if he does not find a donor for a kidney transplant. His family members are currently being tested to see if they are a match, but the only ones who might be able to donate live outside the United States, and it is fairly difficult to get a humanitarian visa for the procedure even if they do match. Brother Torrez and his wife are at their last options and are now seeking a donor.
Brother Torrez is in need of a donor who has an “O” blood type (positive or negative), is healthy (no high/low blood pressure or serious illnesses) and between 20 to 45 years old. If you, or anyone you know matches these requirements and is interested in serving as a donor, please contact Brother Ricardo García at (407) 276 0399 as he has agreed to be a point of contact for brothers who wish to help. He can then connect you with Dyrlan’s wife for more information. If you are a match, the transplant hospital, Tampa General Hospital, would then work with you to organize transportation and other accomodations for the procedure.
Although this is a difficult moment, there is a silver lining: this is an opportunity where our Brotherhood can come together to help save the life of one of our own. Please feel free to forward this message to anyone you know who may be able to help Brother Torrez.
En la unión está la fuerza, hermanos,
José Grajales
National President
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity Inc.