The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) is a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients. In Vista, volunteers are raising funds for transplant patients like local teen Lucas Valencia.Born on May 12, 1996, Lucas was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, and doctors at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California recommended a life-saving heart transplant. An estimated $50,000 is being raised by Vista volunteers.Volunteers are needed to assist with fundraising activities. Individuals and groups interested in more information can contact Community Coordinator Becky Gelvezon at 760.208.3422 or [email protected].Donations may be made in person at any Bank of America branch location using account number 2191970618 or mailed to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, 2501 West COTA Drive, Bloomington, Indiana, 47403. Checks or money orders should be made payable to COTA, with “In Honor of Lucas V.” written on the memo line of the check. Secure credit card donations are also accepted online at www.COTAforLucasV.com.Lucas’ family has asked for assistance from the Children’s Organ Transplant Association. The organization’s priority is to assure that no child is denied a transplant or excluded from a transplant waiting list due to lack of funds. One hundred percent of all funds raised are used for patients’ transplant-related expenses.Here are a couple things they have already done to raise money for Lucas:Feb 11th ~ Bake Sale during Casita Center For Technology, Science and Math Valentine’s Day DanceFeb 14th ~ Ronan Torrence an 8 year old boy will be swimming laps at Brooks Street Pool in Oceanside, taking pledges for each lap. Ronan is calling the event “Give a heart this valentine’s day”March 3rd ~ Carnival themed dinner sale during our Book FairPosted on 03/23/11 by Allison
