SAPD officer takes “Protect and Serve” to the next level [La Prensa (San Antonio, TX)]

When Officer Menell Orosco, 52, patrols the streets, she portrays a strong, fearless woman. Eighteen years of protecting and serving the citizens as a San Antonio Police officer, has placed her in harm's way and face-to-face with some of the area's most ruthless criminals. Yet, when she talks about her niece, M'cetz Michelle Orosco, and her upcoming fundraiser on Sept. 14, Officer Orosco's dark sunglasses can't hide the tears filling her eyes as they roll down her cheeks.

Five years ago, at the young age of 24, Michelle was diagnosed with Crescentic glomerulonephritis or Rapidly Progressive Plomerulonephritis (RPGN), a rare kidney disease that severely damages small structures inside the organ called glomeruli. Doctors believe it was caused by a strep throat that went untreated. As a result, the virus started attacking her kidneys.

"When the doctors realized what she had they started treating it aggressively with chemo, steroids, and all kinds of medication to try to put it in remission," explained Michelle's mother, Valentina Orosco.

Although Michelle is now in remission, her kidneys are functioning at 18 percent. The past years have been an ongoing battle. The illness interfered with every aspect of her life - her graduate studies at the University of Texas of San Antonio, her ability to work, her love for sports, and her social life. But staying true to the description given by people that surround her of a "strong and positive" person, Michelle tries to Uve her life to the fullest. She goes out with friends, works three times a week and fills her room's wall with sticky notes to herself that read "Go me," "You can do it," and "Smile."

"But she constantly has to sleep, constantly has to rest, and she takes like 30 pills a day, every day," Valentina lamented. "She lives the life of maybe a 60-year-old now... it's heartbreaking."

Michelle's doctors explained to the family that at this point dialysis will weaken her body at a faster rate. Instead, they recommend a kidney transplant, but the wait to receive an organ can last years. According to the National Kidney Foundation website, more than 2,000 new names are added to the national waiting list for organ transplants every month, and about 18 people die every day while waiting for an organ transplant in the U.S.

That's why Officer Orosco quickly offered her kidney.

"I am willing to give her the kidney because I feel like I've already lived my life and I would like her to continue living her life to the fullest, so ifthat's what it has to be I am 100 percent for it, without hesitation," she said as she discreetly wiped tears away.

A group of Michelle's family and friends signed up as potential donors. Nevertheless, before anyone can donate an organ, a series of medical exams, physical assessments and psychological evaluations need to take place to determine compatibility. The process normally takes six months to complete and if one candidate does not meet requirements, the process starts all over again with the next person in line.

Officer Orosco fills slot number one on the list and already completed two phases out of four phases required for the evaluation process.

"I know I am going to be the one, I can feel it," she said. "It's not scary, let's just do it, I want to get it done and out of the way so she can move on with her life."

Michelle expresses gratitude for her aunt's continuous support and generosity.

"It's a big deal, because she is giving a body part and it's a big deal because its surgery and it really means a lot that she's willing to go through the procedure to help me survive."

The Orosco family is having a fundraiser to help pay for the transplant. Usually, the recipient's Medicare or private health insurance covers the transplant, but Michelle lacks Medicare, meaning, she will have to be responsible for a huge chunk of the bill. In addition, donors' insurances don't pay for loss of wages during recovery, and travel expenses, if any.

"We are trying to raise money that way we can help pay the medical bills, and maybe help the donor, whoever it may be, offset the cost of their bills if they have to take time off from work," said Valentina. "We are just trying to be considerate of everybody's situation."

The Kidney Transplant Fundraiser to benefit Michelle takes place Saturday, Sept. 14 at the San Antonio Event Center located on 8111 Meadow Leaf Dr. from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. where BBQ brisket and sausage plates will be selling for $7. Supporters can either eat there and enjoy music from a DJ or pick up the plates to go.

Cynthia Ipina, Vice-President for Culebra Park Neighborhood Association encourages La Prensa readers to support the cause.

"As a SAFFE officer (part of the SAPD's San Antonio Fear Free Environment Unit) Menell has constantly given 110 percent to our neighborhood. She is very giving of her time, she helps everyone, she explains everything, and she listens to everybody," shared Ipina. "It's only right to help her now. I'd like people stop and think, if this were their family, their daughter, their son, etc., you'd want people to help. It doesn't take much-any amount of support you can give would help this family a great deal."

Officer Orosco chimed in.

"By all means come and support us, it's for a good cause. We know there are numerous people with the same similar diseases or issues, but for this one day, September the 14, we ask for the community's support."

For those that can't make it for whatever reason, Michelle's mom pleads to the community.

"Just keep praying for my baby."

For donations, or to purchase BBQ plate tickets, please contact Menell Orosco at (210) 421-1665.