School raises money for student in need of kidney transplant

Ema Tavares, 11, suffers from Renal Disease which caused kidney failure

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. ā€“ The halls of Renaissance Charter School in Coral Springs have gone green, but instead of saving the Earth, they're trying to save a life.

Ema Tavares is living with Renal Disease which has sent her into kidney failure. It's been over a year since her diagnosis and Ema is making adjustments saying, "I hope I get used to dialysis so I'm not as tired and can have more fun."

Just days after her 11th birthday, her best friends decided it was time for "Ema's Day" -- a school-wide fundraiser to help pay for her dialysis treatments and ultimatelyĀ  find a living donor.Ā 

It's been a hard year for the Tavares family, especially for Ema's mom, Janice Tavares, who takes Ema to dialysis three times a week while her husband watches their older daughter, Mia.

With the support of her classmates and help from the community, "Ema's Day" is one she and her family will cherish for years to come

An eligible donor candidate for Ema must have O positive blood type and be between the ages of 18-35 and in good health.Ā 

For more information on how you can help, email hopeforema@gmail.com.

Follow Local 10 News on TwitterĀ @WPLGLocal10