CORE Ambassadors
Anjay Rastogi, MD, PhD
Dr. Miralini Sarkar
Dr. Mrinalini Sarkar, a faculty for UCLA’s Division of Nephrology, is a board-certified nephrologist known for her extensive research background, mentorship initiatives including the Bruin Beans Health Club, and leadership in the UCLA CORE Kidney Health Program. With extensive expertise in kidney health, Dr. Sarkar is renowned for her compassionate patient care and commitment to excellence in the field. She holds a stellar academic record and has contributed significantly to advancements in nephrology research. Dr. Sarkar is dedicated to improving the lives of her patients through comprehensive treatment plans and innovative medical interventions. Her unwavering dedication to kidney health and patient well-being makes her a highly respected figure in the medical community.She is a clinical instructor for the kidney and pancreas transplant programs at UCLA Health. She embodies UCLA’s values of excellence, compassion, and integrity.
Shima Fazelimanesh
Meet Shima Fazelimanesh, a dedicated Registered Clinical Dietitian specializing in Kidney Disease, Diabetes, and Weight Management. Passionate about empowering individuals to embrace healthier lifestyles, Shima uses evidence-based research to assess and optimize nutrition tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With experience at esteemed program, UCLA CORE Kidney Program, she educates and supports patients in making informed, nutritionally sound choices for accelerated recovery. Shima’s empathetic approach inspires positive transformations, aiming to help individuals achieve their health goals through personalized nutrition guidance and support
James Cunningham
James Cunningham is a Psychotherapist and Ambassador of the UCLA CORE Kidney Program, treating issues related to wellness and health! Treats and interacts with kidney patients, or, more specifically Nephrology patients for treatment of anxiety and reactivity. “UCLA’s Health CORE Kidney program has diversified client resources and created a network inference that collaborates many specialists to help facilitate clients at all stages of Kidney disease.” Jim Cunningham. Before becoming a psychotherapist, he was an elite athlete and distinguished athletic trainer that worked with other athletes and former Olympians.
Brian Gilliam- Donor
I pledged to donate my kidney to my father, Dana Gilliam, if needed. Witnessing my father’s health decline during dialysis treatment motivated me to insist on exploring a kidney transplant. I was confirmed as a match for my father, and the transplant greatly improved my father’s health and lifestyle. Inspired by this experience, I became an advocate for kidney donation, mentoring individuals through the donation journey and joining CORE Kidney in October 2017. I offer unwavering support, emphasizing the safety and rewards of kidney donation. I believe the act of giving a kidney not only saves a life but also enriches the donor’s life emotionally and spiritually. Through CORE Kidney, I continue to spread hope and demonstrate the positive impact of selfless acts.
Marc Coronel-Recipient
Brandy Hughes- Donor
In 2014, I became a kidney donor for a close loved one, who experienced kidney failure. UCLA’s
exceptional medical team, led by Dr. Rastogi, provided us with confidence and support
throughout the process. Being a match filled me with joy, and despite some pre-surgery anxiety,
the procedure at UCLA went smoothly. My recovery was surprisingly swift, and my life resumed
normalcy soon after. Reflecting on the experience years later, I would donate again if I could.
The remarkable people we encountered during our journey compelled me to share our story,
aiming to dispel fears and stigmas surrounding kidney disease, dialysis, and donation. I urge
others to join us in ending the silence and changing perceptions about kidney health.
Brock Hall-Donor
My journey to kidney donation began in the mid-’90s during my premed internship, where I witnessed a bilateral nephrectomy and silently resolved to donate my kidney someday. In April 2002, I met my neighbor, who had polycystic kidney disease, and offered to donate my kidney without hesitation. Eighteen years later, I fulfilled my promise to my neighbor after learning he was on dialysis. My commitment to kidney advocacy grew post-surgery. I am eager to raise awareness about kidney donation and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities. I am grateful for the opportunity to spotlight the CORE Kidney program and organ donation
Nanette Zumwalt-Recipient
A remarkable tale of love, sacrifice, and serendipity unfolded within the halls of Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, where I was battling polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and underwent a life-altering kidney transplant.
Despite numerous potential donors among family and friends, fate intervened during a chance meeting in Spain, where my son fell in love with Juliana, whose
mother, Diana Bedoya, ultimately became my kidney donor. Under the care of Dr. Anjay Rastogi at UCLA’s CORE Kidney Health Program, I found renewed hope and optimism, leading to a successful transplant on December 20, 2022, marking a significant turning point in my
health journey. As I reflect on my journey from illness to rebirth, I marvel at the interconnectedness of our lives, emphasizing the remarkable twists of fate that led to my life-saving transplant and the newfound optimism that now illuminates my path forward.
Diana Bedoya-Donor
During a night out in Barcelona, Nanette’s son met my daughter, Juliana, who was instrumental in changing our health journey. Despite language barriers, the couple fell in love, leading to stronger bonds between their families. During a trip to Spain, Nanette confided in me about her battle with PKD. I immediately offered to be a donor without hesitation. In 2021, I traveled from Spain to UCLA to undergo testing as a potential donor for Zumwalt. With my daughter serving as an intermediary due to language barriers, I navigated the process with determination to help my new family member. Circle of CORE has been a big part of my journey.
Harol Owens-Recipient
I battled kidney disease in Los Angeles, starting in 2007, when I was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease. Despite the challenges of dialysis, I found support from my friend, Jimmy, the Southern California Kidney Foundation, and the Circle of CORE. Eventually, Jimmy offered me a kidney transplant. I recovered with determination, embracing each day as a victory. I later became involved with CORE Kidney to support others facing similar struggles. My journey is a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of hope.
Colleen Flanary-Donor
My journey with kidney advocacy began when my daughter, Caitlin, was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) at 15. We met Dr. Anjay Rastogi at a PKD walk, whose dedication impressed us. When faced with the inevitability of Caitlin needing a kidney transplant, I wanted to donate but also ensure Caitlin’s future transplant. I discovered the NKR’s kidney voucher program, donating my kidney to Maria Ramos in 2018. Through Circle of CORE, I share my donation experience, emphasizing the transformative impact of kidney transplants and the safety of donation. I continue to advocate for kidney donation, highlighting the evolving voucher program’s benefits for donors and their families. My story showcases the profound impact of kidney donation and the compassionate spirit of the kidney donation community.
Ravi Bhojwani-Recipient
Since graduating from the University of Toronto, I’ve ventured into various fields. My life took a profound turn at six when I faced focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Despite doctors advising an inevitable kidney transplant, I managed my condition meticulously, surpassing expectations of kidney longevity. In my early 40s, living in Hong Kong, I sought expertise for my evolving health needs. Moving to Los Angeles in 2016, I found Dr. Rastogi, whose unparalleled expertise in kidney health stood out. Our first meeting affirmed my need for a transplant. I took an unconventional route, using Facebook to seek a donor. Despite initial setbacks, a video crafted by me, my brother, and my nephew caught the attention of Sara, a healthcare professional. A dinner on August 24th, 2017, marked the beginning of a life-changing bond. Sara agreed to be my donor, and on November 1st, 2017, the successful transplant took place, leaving both with a newfound appreciation for life’s synchronicities.
Sara Erskine-Donor
My name is Sara. Inspired by Gandhi’s words, I embarked on a journey to help a stranger by donating a kidney. In July 2017, I registered with the National Kidney Registry and chose UCLA for evaluation. Learning about the dire need for kidneys, I underwent the process with determination. On November 1, 2017, I gave the gift of life to a grateful recipient. This experience filled me with profound joy and a sense of purpose. Back to my busy life as a single mom with three wonderful children and a house full of pets, I’ve resumed my activities with renewed vigor. I hope my story inspires others to consider donation and spread awareness about kidney health. My journey continues with gratitude towards the incredible individuals at UCLA CORE Kidney Program, particularly Dr. Rastogi and his team, whose passion for helping others is truly inspiring. Let’s change and fight kidney disease together.
Mary Beth Barry - Recipient
With a 40-year career in education, I left a lasting impact on my students, even celebrating St. Patrick’s Day dressed as a leprechaun. In my mid-60s, I faced an unexpected battle with kidney disease. Despite a healthy lifestyle, the diagnosis was a shock, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the disease. Meeting Dr. Rastogi in 2012 marked the start of a supportive relationship. After embracing home dialysis for over four years, I found solace in community connections at kidney fairs and the Circle of CORE. Facing transplant challenges, fate intervened when I received the kidney of NFL player Konrad Reuland, who tragically passed away from a brain aneurysm.
Kathy Ioramo-Donor
I embarked on a journey of altruism in the realm of organ donation. Motivated by my brother’s battle with stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease, I sought to help him despite our incompatible blood types. Discovering the option of non-directed kidney donation at UCLA Health, I saw an opportunity to indirectly aid my brother by donating to a stranger, facilitating another donor-recipient pair’s transplant process. On January 17th, 2024, I underwent the procedure, my kidney reaching an unknown recipient in Arizona. Post-surgery, I became an advocate for kidney health and donation, emphasizing the simplicity and safety of the process. My emotional rollercoaster post-operation led to a profound sense of fulfillment and connection to the broader human community. Katherine’s story highlights the impact of altruistic organ donation, inspiring others to consider the gift of life beyond their immediate circles.
Sou Tang-Recipient
My name is Sou. I’ve transitioned from being a dialysis patient to becoming a peritoneal dialysis nurse and a kidney transplant recipient. Dr. Anjay Rastogi played a crucial role in my journey since November 2011, providing vital care and guidance at UCLA. Graduating from nursing school in May 2014, I embraced home peritoneal dialysis for better health management. Dr. Rastogi’s unwavering support, culminating in the long-awaited kidney transplant in June 2017, showcased his exceptional dedication. Now, as a symbol of gratitude, I aim to raise awareness about kidney disease and organ donation alongside Dr. Rastogi and his team, while continuing to support dialysis patients.
Celia Corral-Donor
I am a living kidney donor and love to share my journey by spreading love and compassion through transplant. Adopted at 10, I cherish my family and enjoy outdoor activities. Introduced to kidney health during high school, I felt drawn to help after seeing a touching article. When my relative Matt needed a kidney, I volunteered. Despite being the sole match after screenings, I humbly underwent surgery in July 2023, donating my kidney named Meg to Matt. My gift granted Matt a second chance at life, allowing him to enjoy precious moments with his family. Despite risks, I shied away from praise but found a sense of community with CORE Kidney. My selflessness inspires others to make a difference and continue the cycle of giving. I hope to inspire others to follow a similar path.
Louie Mejia-Recipient
I am a former gang member and drug dealer from an underserved community in Los Angeles who turned my life around to become an award-winning journalist. I began my career in television at a young age, eventually working for CNN for 20 years, covering major international and domestic events. Despite my successful career, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in 2020, facing various health challenges including a heart attack and surgery. Following my diagnosis, I adopted a vegan lifestyle and lost weight to manage my kidney function. I connected with Dr. Rastogi and the UCLA CORE Kidney Health Program through a friend’s recommendation, finding support, resources, and hope for my CKD journey and potential future transplant. I am grateful for the support and inspiration from the CORE team and aim to give back to others facing similar challenges in the future.
Judy Chiasson-Donor
Despite initial fear and hesitation, I decided to donate my kidney to a stranger through UCLA’s advance donor program. Motivated by stories of kidney donors and recipients, I underwent a thorough screening process and received approval. I kept my decision secret until after approval, facing mixed reactions from family. With my enlarged amygdala driving my decision, I was determined to help. My family supported me throughout the process, traveling to UCLA for the procedure. The surgery went well, and my bond with my family deepened.
Meeting my recipient, Susan, was a profound moment, and our lives are forever connected. Almost a year later, I feel no ill effects, but the memory of meeting Susan remains vivid.
Andy Greene-Donor
Upon learning about a colleague’s partner’s struggle with dialysis, I discovered that her rare blood type made finding a donor challenging. I was a member of the exclusive Type O Negative blood group, applied to UCLA’s Living Donor Program. Following successful testing, I underwent kidney transplant surgery. Motivated by a genuine desire to help others, I emphasize the importance of kidney health, especially during National Kidney Month. My surgery was 7 years ago, when I was 60 years old. I have been an active member of the Circle of CORE under the UCLA CORE Kidney Health Program, supporting patients and families affected by kidney disease and making a meaningful difference in their lives
Robbin Mooney-Caretaker
