I proudly served in the United States Navy as a Yeoman (YN), where I was entrusted with vital administrative responsibilities. After completing “A” School, I was stationed at the Administration building in Personnel at Pensacola, Florida. I later transferred to the Point Loma Submarine Base in San Diego, continuing my work in administration—this time within the security department.
My time in the Navy was a chapter of growth, service, and dedication, and I carry those experiences with pride. In 1983, I made the decision to transition out of the military to embrace a new and equally important role: becoming a full-time mother and wife. Serving both my country and my family has been one of the greatest honors of my life.
After my military service, I found a new purpose in the medical field—a place where I could continue serving others in a meaningful way. From 1990 to 2021, I worked in various hospital units and specialties, gaining a wide range of experiences that ultimately inspired me to pursue a degree in nursing.
Caring for others—especially those who were sick or in need—was more than just a job to me. It was a true calling. There was something deeply fulfilling about being able to comfort, support, and help people heal. Every patient I cared for, every team I worked with, helped shape the nurse and person I became.
In 2021, my journey in healthcare came to an unexpected pause when I was diagnosed with kidney disease. Though I can no longer work, the heart I brought to my profession remains with me. I look back on those years with pride and gratitude for having had the chance to make a difference, one patient at a time.
I’ve been blessed to share my life with a wonderful partner—my husband—for nearly 43 beautiful years. Together, we’ve built a life full of love, laughter, and lasting memories. We are proud parents to three incredible daughters, each of whom has brought so much joy and pride into our lives.
Our family has grown even more special with the arrival of our five amazing grandchildren—two grandsons and three granddaughters—who have completely stolen my heart. Being their grandmother is one of life’s greatest joys, and I treasure every moment I get to spend with them.
Family has always been at the center of my world, and I am so grateful for the love that continues to surround us through every season of life. I’m incredibly proud of the strong, compassionate, and accomplished women my daughters have become. Each of them has taken their own unique path, and I couldn’t be prouder of the women—and mothers—they’ve become.
My oldest daughter, Michaella, is a self-employed business owner in the wellness and massage field. She has built a life centered around healing and helping others, and she does it with such grace and passion. She’s also a devoted mother to three wonderful children—two sons and one daughter—who bring so much joy to our family.
Adrianna, my middle daughter, is the store director for a major food supermarket, leading with strength and dedication. She’s married to a police officer, and together they are raising a beautiful daughter who has captured all our hearts.
Our youngest, Azalia, lives close by, which is such a blessing. She is the manager of a well-respected orthopedic practice known across the state. She’s also a loving mother to a daughter we’ve had the joy and privilege of helping raise. Being such a close part of her life has been one of the greatest gifts we could ask for.
In July 2021, I was diagnosed with stage five kidney failure—a life-changing moment that began a new chapter in my journey. Since January 2022, I’ve been undergoing dialysis treatment three times a week at a nearby clinic. Each session lasts about four hours and, while necessary, can be incredibly draining.
Dialysis days are often my hardest. I tend to feel lightheaded, weak, and unsteady—sometimes even too exhausted to do much else for the rest of the day. These treatments take a toll on my body, bringing with them a number of physical limitations. Thankfully, the day after treatment usually brings a bit of relief, and I try to make the most of those moments when I feel more like myself.
Though this journey has its challenges, I continue to face it with strength, faith, and the love of my family. Every day is a gift, and I remain hopeful for what lies ahead.
Creativity has always been a big part of who I am. I love photography—capturing life’s little moments through the lens brings me so much joy. I also enjoy jewelry making, arts and crafts, and anything that lets me work with my hands and express myself.
Cooking is another passion of mine, especially trying new recipes from different cultures. There’s something so special about bringing people together through food and sharing traditions from around the world.
Looking ahead with hope, if I were ever to receive a kidney transplant, one of my biggest dreams is to give back by volunteering in senior communities. I’ve always had a heart for helping others, and being able to offer time, companionship, and care to seniors would be an incredible way to continue living with purpose and love.
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 Manesa’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