Speaking of #Kidney Group heroes, let me tell you about our patient, Frank Filiberto. Frank happens to be on dialysis, and awaiting a #transplant. He is also in charge of the Dialysis Support Group and never fails to lend a kind and encouraging word to others, or seek attention for a patient in need. He is a graduate of the University of Miami. He is also a wonderful father. He is both patient and optimistic. But perhaps most striking -he is just about the biggest #Miami #Hurricane fan we have EVER met. Because while most of us are “interested” Cane fans, Frank is “committed”.
His story is both heartwrenching and triumphant, and we look forward to the day he receives his new kidney.
Here is his story in his own words:
“This is my ‘leg’ which was custom fabricated for me after I lost the battle with a flesh devouring disease that had entered my heel and then my leg bone. It required my foot be amputated in June 2001.
Dr. Valle arrived at my bedside and saw the dire condition which was my current state. He went to work immediately as my kidneys were failing and my other organs were soon to follow. He ordered the necessary medications and supervised my treatment. I did not want the amputation so they brought out the ‘ big gun’ my weeping twelve year old Francesca. She said ” Daddy I need you” so I scribbled my incoherent consent and the emergency surgery proceeded. That part being accomplished the difficult work began that being to kill the infection that had entered my blood stream and was positioning my entire body. Our priest was called and I received the last rights.
I know that Dr Valles training and intellect saved my life and with the aid of The Almighty, and brought me back from the brink of death.
God Bless you Dr Valle for helping to save my life so I could enjoy seeing my dearest daughter grow into womanhood and graduate my alma mater!”
