Sierra Madre Fire Engineer Markus Duson to be Honored by National Organ Procurement Organization

OneLegacy, the nation’s largest organ procurement organization, has selected Sierra Madre Fire Department Engineer Markus Duson to have a flag raised in his honor. Duson, who received a life-saving kidney transplant in 2022, will be recognized for his resilience and dedication to serving his community despite facing significant health challenges.

Duson began his career with the Sierra Madre Fire Department in May 2014, playing a pivotal role in the department’s transition from a volunteer to a career department in 2019. He rose through the ranks from firefighter to paramedic to engineer, demonstrating, the City of Sierra Madres said in a statement, an unwavering commitment to his profession.

However, during a routine physical exam, Duson discovered he was in the early stages of kidney failure. Undeterred by this setback, he continued his duties with fortitude while being placed on the United Network for Organ Sharing transplant list and undergoing peritoneal dialysis.

In December 2022, Duson and his family received a life-altering gift — a kidney transplant. 

Throughout his challenging recovery, he found strength in the support of his loved ones, including his wife Corina, their three young sons — Ryland, Radley, and Rayden — his sister Chantal, and mother-in-law Mica. Duson also received unwavering support from his medical teams at Kaiser Permanente and University of California, Los Angeles, as well as his Sierra Madre Fire Department family.

Duson returned to his passion in April 2023, radiating gratitude for the selfless act that transformed his life. His journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and community support, the Coty f Sierra Madre said in its statement.

In recognition of Duson’s inspiring story, OneLegacy has selected him for a flag-raising honor at the Sierra Madre Fire Department, 242 W. Sierra Madre Blvd, on Tuesday, April 30, at 8:00 a.m. 

The public was invited to attend this event, which was set to coincide with April’s DONATE LIFE Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of organ donation.

Working with hospitals, physicians, transplant centers, and the community, OneLegacy aims to promote organ and tissue donation. Duson’s experience highlights the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and their families. Through the sacrifice of one family, Duson received the ultimate gift of life, enabling him to continue serving his community and cherishing moments with his loved ones.