Saint Mary’s College High School Senior Alfonso Garcia is a long-time fan of the San Francisco Giants. When he was given the honor of throwing the ceremonial first pitch at the San Francisco team’s home game on July 20th, however, the recognition was not for his loyalty to the Giants, but for his role as an ambassador for the California Transplant Donor Network. Alfonso’s connection with the Donor Network comes from a very personal experience: he himself is an organ recipient.

Over a year ago, Alfonso was diagnosed with Wilson’s Disease, a condition which prevents the body from clearing itself of excess copper. By the time of his diagnosis in January of 2010, his liver was so seriously compromised that he was given only 48 hours to live. Fortunately for Alfonso, a matching donor liver became available, giving him a reprieve from the fatal prognosis. Alfonso gratefully acknowledges the young man whose death offered Alfonso the chance to live, and he is acutely aware that it was a very conscious decision made earlier by the victim that afforded the opportunity.

In his presentations to teens, Alfonso relates his miraculous experience, hoping to awaken them to the reality that organ donation is an issue that can touch their young lives as well as the lives of older people. He also counsels them that as minors, they must let their parents know of their wishes to become donors since parental permission is required for their choice. This past week, Alfonso brought his message to a gathering of Lasallian Student Leaders held at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga. Over 150 young people representing schools from the San Francisco and New Orleans-Santa Fe Districts heard the remarkable story, with hopes that they will carry it it back to their student bodies and spread the importance of organ donorship.