Local doctor pens book, proceeds to benefit patients

Dr. Alfonso Chavez is a Nephrologist, or kidney doctor.

He has dedicated his life to helping patients, and not just those in his care.

It only makes sense that his third and latest book, “I Carry You In My Heart,” is meant to educate all El Pasoans about taking charge of their health.

The book also contains personal stories, including the death of his wife Georgina, who ironically recently died of kidney failure.

Chavez also writes about the Amigo Kidney Foundation, which he established 36 years ago. It’s a local non-profit that helps patients undergoing dialysis or transplants.

“We buy them physical tools for their care, medication, transportation, clothing and we help in any way they can be assisted. Even paying utilites,” said Dr. Chavez.

When Chavez moved to the Sun City in 1979, there was only one dialysis machine in the entire city. He was also one of only three nephrologists in town. Over the years, his mission has stayed the same.

He says El Paso has many diabetic and hypertensive residents. Both diseases are silent, with no symptoms. That’s what makes them so scary.

“I believe the pateints themselves need to be more careful to do frequent follow-ups,” he said, “If they’re diabetic, take care of themselves, follow instructions, diet, physical exams. Protect themselves.”

Chavez’s book also points out what to recognize, and how to treat symptoms correctly, taking a pro-active approach to health. It gets personal as he tells of caring for his wife Georgina, who fought illness before dying of kidney failure. He says it was an extremely difficult time for him and his family.

A book signing will be held tonight at 7 pm at Thyme Matters on Mesa Street. All proceeds go to the Amigo Kidney Foundation.