For April’s Donate Life month, consider becoming a registered organ donor
Posted: April 18, 2024
A former Hawaiʻi Island art teacher and Hilo Chapter HSTA member needs your help.
Forty-four year old Nathon (Nate) Rodrigues experienced heart failure in January and is currently on the waiting list for a new heart, which can be anywhere from three months to a year.
In light of April being National Donate Life Month, Nate’s family is asking for support in his journey, and also looking to raise awareness about the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation.
About Nate and his family
Nate was born and raised in the Hilo and Volcano area on Hawaiʻi Island. He graduated from Waiākea High School and the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
He taught at public schools on Hawaiʻi Island for eight years: five at Pāhoa High and Intermediate and three at Hilo High before relocating to Chicago in 2015 to earn his Master of Fine Arts from DePaul University. Since 2018, he and his family have lived in Oak Park, just north of Chicago, to continue his passion of teaching as an art teacher.
Nate’s illness took a turn for the worse in January and rendered him unable to return to his high school classroom. His condition has also cut his family’s income in half and thrust their finances into turmoil.
Nate has used up his sick leave and his employer does not offer short term disability. He is currently on unpaid FMLA leave.
This isn’t just Nate’s fight; it’s a family battle. Nate’s father Anthony (also of Hilo) was a heart transplant recipient when Nate was only 15. The transplant allowed him nearly 17 additional years of cherished memories.
Now, the family dreams of giving Nate the same chance—to witness his 12 year-old-daughter’s journey into adulthood, to celebrate her achievements, and to share countless more moments together.
How you can help
Nate’s family started a GoFundMe page to help lighten the load during these trying times. Your support can bridge the gap between hope and hardship, offering Nate a chance at a future filled with love, art, and family milestones.
“My father got 17 more years with his family, to see his kids grow, get married, have kids, you know, see grandkids. So ultimately, any little bit of help means more time with the ones that I love,” Nate said.
“I’m very thankful for all of the generosity and well wishes people have given,” he added.
Your generosity can pave the way for Nate’s return to health and to the heart of his classroom and family.
Elect to become a donor
April is Donate Life month, and the need for donors is both urgent and continuous.
With more than 100,000 people nationwide waiting for life saving transplants, now is a great time to become an organ, eye, and tissue donor. Join the Donate Life Hawai’i organ and tissue donor registry and help meet the need locally.