Dr. Elliot Rodríguez always had a passion for nature photography, hiking, and traveling the world – until his energy seemed to fade. At 38, after undergoing numerous medical tests, doctors discovered Dr. Rodríguez was in kidney failure, caused by polycystic kidney disease. 

Determined to preserve his kidney function for as long as possible, Dr. Rodríguez adopted a vegan lifestyle on specialists’ advice. Despite his efforts, 16 years later he needed hemodialysis. Dr. Rodríguez’s journey brightened when he received a kidney transplant – a gift of life. Thanks to his donor hero, Dr. Rodríguez returned to his profession as an optometrist. Now, more than a decade after his transplant, he uses his experience to support patients at risk for kidney failure, and to advocate for organ donation in his community. 

Throughout it all, Dr. Rodríguez maintained a positive outlook, bolstered by the unwavering support of his wife, family, and patients. He expresses deep gratitude to God, his donor hero, Cesar, and to Cesar’s family for a second chance at life.