Sheila Rodriguez

Type of Donation:       liver (living donor)

Age and Location:      Age 34 – Ontario, CA

Date of Donation:           6/27/2024

Sponsor:                      Honored by OneLegacy

SHEILA’S STORY

At 33 years old, Sheila Rodriguez made the life-changing decision to become a living liver donor, offering a portion of her liver to someone in need. Born in Mexico and raised in Chino, CA, Sheila has always been passionate about helping others, a value that continues to guide her both personally and professionally. A proud graduate of Don Antonio Lugo High School, Sheila earned her B.A. in Political Science from Cal Poly Pomona in 2015 and her M.A. in Public Administration from Azusa Pacific University in 2023. She has built a distinguished career as a public safety dispatcher and currently serves as a Lead Dispatcher and Communications Training Officer. Fluent in English and Spanish, she holds multiple advanced certifications and serves as secretary for her agency's peer support team. Sheila was also honored with a Lifesaving Award after successfully instructing CPR over the phone. Her decision to donate a portion of her liver wasn't taken lightly. Though her family was understandably apprehensive about the risks involved, they ultimately stood by her with love, pride, and admiration. The experience strengthened their bond and inspired others in her life to consider the lasting impact of organ donation. Her role as a living donor also led her to become an ambassador for OneLegacy, where she now shares her story to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donation. Sheila's giving spirit extends far beyond dispatch and donation. She serves as Secretary of the Rotary Club of Placentia, where she helps organize community events like food drives, dental clinics, and the club's largest fundraiser, Cowabunga. She frequently speaks at citizen and police academies, supports outreach efforts, and volunteers at career fairs and local events, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to service. Now 34, Sheila's transplant journey has made her more resilient, grateful, and purpose driven. It reminded her, and everyone around her, that one person's decision can ripple outward in life-changing ways. Whether behind the headset or in the operating room, Sheila is committed to saving lives in and out of the dispatch center. She continues to live each day with intention, lifting others up through compassion, courage, and connection.