“ We regret to inform you that your liver is failing. You require a liver transplant.” These are words that no person should ever hear. These are words that alter reality, break minds, and shatter dreams. Life is a fragile thing and can change drastically in an instant. These crippling words became a reality for James Valderrama. James is no stranger to hard times. James is a father, husband, friend, mentor, and more, and he deserves for life to start paying him back for the struggles he has been through. Something like liver failure is impossible for an individual to prepare for. We have the ability to help James. Upon finding out that he would need a new liver, James stated,” This came as a huge surprise to me, and I haven’t finished writing my story on this beautiful planet we call home.”
James grew up in San Jose, California, where he was very active in his church and began to grow his faith as he matured. He worked with his father, who was a licensed cement contractor. “Having been brought up with a strong work ethic and a supportive family, I had the confidence to make my own way as a young man.” While attending high school in San Jose, he was struck by a reckless driver while riding his motorcycle. This incident cost him a majority of his right leg, and he was forced to re-discover life as he knew it. James didn’t let this hold him down. He worked hard and soon got his apartment, becoming completely self-reliant. Soon after, he moved to Idaho and decided to pursue his dreams of becoming a competitive disabled skier. He became a prosthetic and orthotic technician in 1991, using what life had given him in a positive way. James has a stunning outlook on life. “I have dedicated my whole life to being the most excellent version of myself on my terms. I have lived a life full of passion, hard work, and creativity in all that I do. From making prosthetics to running a distillery, I have a love for enjoying the fruits of my labor. I have been blessed with an abundant life, friends, and family. Unfortunately, my liver wasn’t able to keep up with me, and I was diagnosed with failing liver disease.”
A liver transplant was performed as time progressed, and James received a new liver on December 16, 2022. This process has rendered James unable to work for the time being, and he requires assistance with medical and living expenses. Yet again, James has to rewrite life. Hitting the redo button on your life is a highly daunting task. Not only does he have to deal with rehab and therapy for his liver, but he cannot work in the same ways he has worked in the past. We are looking to raise $60k to help with his recovery process. Any help would be much appreciated. Donate at https://gofund.me/3eb6f432