Real Salt Lake and American Express are proud to announce that the first recipients to be honored as “Heroes Among Us” at RSL’s home opener this Saturday, April 10, will be Marcus and Monica Gilbertof Roy, Utah.
Monica
saw first-hand what giving the gift of life could mean, as her husband, Marcus,
a manager at a Utah County restaurant, came to the aid of a 17-year-old
employee who was in need of a kidney transplant a year-and-a-half ago. Marcus
offered to donate a kidney to young Juan Delgado after the teenager suffered
kidney failure, and, since undergoing the successful operation, Mr. Gilbert has
encouraged those that can donate to do so – words that his wife would soon take
to heart.
After
much consideration, Monica decided to follow her husband’s lead and donate a
kidney herself, despite not knowing who the recipient would be. While Monica
had planned on donating anonymously, the fortunate recipient, Pepe Sione, had
requested to meet with the donor, and the two linked up in February on the day
before she was scheduled to undergo the surgery.
After
Monica’s operation and Pepe’s successful transplant, the three families have
formed an unbreakable bond and will have more memories to share for years to
come thanks to two marvelous acts of unselfishness. They are wonderful examples
of people in our community that continue to make it a better place through
putting others first, and RSL and American Express are pleased to honor the
Gilberts as the first of several “Heroes Among Us” this season.
To nominate your own “Hero,” please visit the
“Community” section
of www.RealSaltLake.com, and
click on the “Heroes
Among Us” link, where a downloadable form will be available.
Submissions can be returned via email to heroesamongus@RealSaltLake.com,
via fax to 801-727-1469, or via mail to the address below:
Rio
Tinto Stadium
Attn:
Heroes Among Us/Rachel King
9526
State Street
Sandy,
Utah 84070
