FRIENDS FOR LIFE volunteers

Kristen S. is the sister of Jaime "Jaimito" Longoria.

Jamito was diagnosed with a serious congenital heart condition that placed him on the transplant list as a child. The months that followed were filled with uncertainty, countless hospital visits, and the kind of hope only families in crisis truly understand. Then, after a year-long wait, came the call that changed everything: a donor heart was available.

“His life completely changed,” Kristen recalls. “He became a totally different person. You could just see it. It speaks to the magic of humans and how we are all connected.”

For their family, the transplant wasn't just a medical event—it was a new chance at life. It allowed Jaimito to fully experience life and savor everyday moments.

Just one day after celebrating the five-year anniversary of his transplant—and shortly after returning from a Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World—Jaimito passed away.
In a final act of generosity, he became a tissue and eye donor—bringing hope and healing to others, just as he once received it himself.

Thomas embodied determination and skill. His love for helping others, his role as a protector and his pure kindness defined who he was.  

When severe injuries from a motorcycle accident led to his passing, his family decided Thomas would become an organ donor. His final gifts were profound: a kidney to a 48-year-old man, another to a 30-year-old woman and the gift of sight to someone who had lived in darkness.  

“His story now serves as an inspiration—driving our mission to promote CPR training, advocate for motorcycle safety and champion organ donation,” Kylie said. “Inspired by Thomas's legacy of kindness, courage and selflessness, we strive to make a lasting impact.” 

Teresita faced the challenges of kidney disease early in life, starting dialysis at just 10 years old. At 14, she received a transformative kidney transplant that sustained her for nearly 12 years. 


After a setback due to a COVID-19 infection, she returned to dialysis for two more years before receiving a second transplant in 2024. 


Now a young adult, Teresita is passionate about raising awareness of kidney disease in her community. She hopes her journey will inspire others to become organ donors and help save lives. 

Following the unexpected passing of her daughter in 2024, Michelle recalled Amanda saying she was a proud organ donor.  

“This was her wish,” Michelle said in proceeding with Amanda's decision despite family and friends attempting to change her mind. She says the inaccurate perception of the organ donation process is what stops people from saying yes to donation. 

“The hospital is there to save lives and when there is no other choice and the person wants to donate, that's when TOSA steps in,” she explained. “I want to be able to explain this to people who are against organ donation.”