[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20308]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING DEPUTY LOPEZ ON BEING NAMED OFFICER OF THE YEAR FOR HER 
                          ALTRUISM AND HEROISM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. RAUL RUIZ

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 19, 2017

  Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize an outstanding 
member of my Congressional district, Riverside County Sheriff's Deputy 
Alicia Lopez. Because of her extraordinary altruism, she was recently 
named Officer of the Year by the Palm Desert Police Department. Her 
story is an inspiration and today, I want to recognize her exceptional 
dedication of service and sacrifice.
  Deputy Lopez and Community Service Officer Angelina Castleberry 
became close friends when they were both working at the Palm Desert 
Police Department. In 2014, Ms. Castleberry gave birth to beautiful 
twins. Unfortunately, one of them was born with a kidney deficiency. 
For three and a half years, little Matthew has been subject to multiple 
dialysis treatments, 14 surgeries, and weekly visits to the Loma Linda 
University Kidney Center.
  Throughout the procedures, doctors advised Ms. Castleberry that 
Matthew may not survive for too long without a kidney transplant. When 
Deputy Lopez learned about Matthew's troubles, she decided to 
participate in a blood drive to see if she could be a match. In March 
2017, the results indicated that she was indeed a match. Without any 
hesitation, Deputy Lopez decided to donate her kidney to save the life 
of little Matthew.
  When Deputy Lopez enthusiastically shared the great news with Ms. 
Castleberry, she was overcome with tears of joy. On July 31, 2017, 
Deputy Lopez donated her left kidney to little Matthew, and the 
transplant surgery was successful. Her selfness generosity saved 
Matthew's life, who is now recovering well with his new kidney.
  Deputy Lopez has dedicated her life to serving the residents of the 
Coachella Valley. Her valuable contributions and arduous work 
strengthening our community are inspiring. As exemplified in this 
story, she goes above and beyond the call of duty.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of California's 36th Congressional District, I 
truly commend Deputy Lopez for her heroism and compassionate sacrifice. 
Her willingness to help little Matthew is an inspiration to us all. Her 
years of service and contributions to our community are an example of 
excellence and dedication that all should seek to emulate.

                          ____________________