I served eleven years in the US Army. While in the Army, I was a Tank Commander and worked as a driver, a loader, and a gunner. I also had the chance to work with ammunitions and hug armor for the battalion and company. Being a good leader and doing my best, no matter what position I was in, was very important to me and I received accommodation in all of them. I rose to the rank of Sergeant by the time my military career was complete and found my time there very satisfying.
After returning to civilian life, I became a postal worker for the US Postal Service. I was there for 20 years until retiring in 2019 with 31 years of federal service. I went back to work as a park ranger in two Florida State Parks for approximately four and fully retired in 2023.
My wonderful wife, Renee, and I have been married for 30 years. We have a blended family of two amazing daughters and are blessed with two grandchildren from our oldest daughter.
When I got out of the military, I was told I in kidney failure and was being treated for high blood pressure, which did not slow the decline of my kidneys. Unfortunately, battling chronic kidney disease (CKD) for 20+ years and my kidney function worsening, I needed to start dialysis in October 2023 and will be reliant on it until a living kidney donor can be found.
I enjoy metal working and traveling with my wife when I can. I live on the coast of Florida and am an avid fisherman. Whether fishing at the ocean or in freshwater, I love them both!
Being here for my family and enjoying the things I love are important to me. Receiving the gift of a living kidney transplant will give me the best chance of a longer and healthier life.
For medically cleared donors, giving the gift of life through living kidney donation has been proven to be very safe. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery. A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save Ernest’s life with the other!
Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family!
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611