Meet Elsa.

I believe in leading with peace, love, understanding…

I am a heart transplant recipient, advocate, and volunteer whose journey has deepened my commitment to helping others feel supported through difficult health experiences. After receiving my donor heart in February 2023, I embraced what I call my “second chance” with gratitude, purpose, and a desire to be of service. 

I am a retired high school English teacher and proud “Abuela Gugu.” Over the years, I have worked with many transplant patients and have come to understand the emotional reality of waiting, hoping, healing, and adjusting to life after transplant. I serve in a variety of volunteer and advocacy roles that reflect my passion for patient support, transplant awareness, and community connection. 

At ReMend, I help manage new patient intake, especially for Spanish-speaking clients. I also offer compassion, encouragement, and understanding to those navigating the transplant process and support others as a transplant care mentor within the ReMend community. I believe in leading with peace, love, understanding—and, now and then, a slice of chocolate cake.