Support David Ringel: A Lifesaver Needs Our Help

My father, David Ringel, has spent his entire life caring for others. While as an EMT in the Bronx for FDNY through Miseracordia/Our Lady of Mercy (now Montefiore) for over 30 years, he saved countless lives, delivered lots of babies, and gave his sympathies to those whose loved ones did not make it. While all the ambulances in the city responded to ground zero on 9/11, he was on the streets in the Bronx, working 29 hour shifts, only going home to change his clothes, and then returned to caring for those in dire need. My father, the hero, bringing people to safety and tending to their wounds.

I remember being at a Walmart when I was younger and a woman coming up to my Dad with her daughter, who had to be about my age at the time. As it turns out, my father had been the one to deliver her daughter. The gratitude on her face as she was introducing her daughter to the man that brought her into this world, is something that I will never forget.

Saving lives wasn’t enough for my Dad. He used his years of experience to teach others how to be an EMT at several local community colleges. He also started his business, Keep on Pumping CPR Training Center, where he instructed thousands on the proper technique for CPR, first aid, wilderness first aid, and even taught babysitting classes. My father truly is “one in a million”.

On July 4, 2023, my father suffered a heart attack due to pneumonia and was placed on life support at St. Joseph’s in Savannah, GA. Unfortunately, while he was able to recover, his kidneys could not, and he began dialysis three times a week. At first, we tried at-home dialysis, but that was unsuccessful. After over a year of treatment, he is now eligible for a kidney transplant, but the costs of the care for himself as well as the potential donor, are very high. We have possibly found someone to donate, but the financial burden is inhibiting the process.

For this reason, this Go Fund Me was created. We are hoping to obtain financial assistance with the costs that are not covered by insurance. These costs include:

•Airfare for the donor 

•Lodging for the donor 

•Transportation to and from the hospital in Charleston, SC (from Savannah, GA)

•Lodging for my father for 30 days in Charleston, SC after the transplant to ensure his body does not reject the new organ, along with all other expenses associated with the stay

We are desperate. My father has spent his entire life saving others. This is our chance to return the favor. Every little bit helps. Our entire family thanks you.