Nick’s journey has just started but began before he was born.  Towards the end of April 2024, Nick started having a hard time breathing.  He was then diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, which was found out to be a genetic mutation.  He then was put on a regiment to help his heart.  For a month Nick killed it with all his graduation preparations, finishing band, and continuing his film career.  He was also very diligent in taking his medication and his new accommodations. 

The week before graduation Nick started having stomach problems.  The day before graduation he was taken to Loma Linda and to our surprise the stomach issues were because of his heart and was diagnosed with progressive heart failure and would need a heart transplant.  Sadly, he did not make it to his high school graduation, but he has not let any of the trials and tribulations stop him.  He had to make some very big decisions that a 17-year-old boy had to make; with that being said he has blown away all doctors, surgeons, and nurses with his perseverance, brilliant mind, and the ability to push forward. 

He made the decision to get a temporary heart pump and be hospitalized until a wonderful new heart was ready for him. 

With all of the good vibes and prayers sent his way, he was able to get that new heart only a week later! 

He once again is blowing everyone away with his bravery and how well he is doing post-transplant. 

He still has a long road to recovery ahead of him, but now he has a new lease on life.  He will be continuing his school career by attending UCR for film as well as marching band and symphony.

For Nick’s new life he will be on medication for the rest of his life and will need to visit many doctors this first year of recovery.  If you are able to donate to COTA for Nick’s Ensemble, anything helps.  COTA funds will be for transplant-related expenses, which will help Nick’s new future with meds and doctors’ appointments. 

Thank you again for keeping Nick in your thoughts and contributing to COTA in his honor and becoming part of Nick’s ensemble.

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.