The long version

Letter to an unknown friend

Josenaldo de Oliveira Matos Filho

Software Developer & Kidney Waster

Dear Friend,

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Josenaldo de Oliveira Matos Filho, or simply Josenaldo or JOM. I have a tale to share, one that I hope will intrigue you.

You see, I am a cyborg.

Yes, a cyborg. At least, that's how I like to think of myself. I am a human who relies on machines to live. More specifically, two types of machines:

Machine one

Computers, enabling me to work and connect with the world.

Machine two

Hemodialysis machines, keeping me alive.

My journey began with my first software project in 1999, but it wasn't until 2003 that I truly delved into the professional realm. Since then, I've weathered the challenges of a myriad of projects and companies.

When it comes to web software, I have ventured into numerous territories. Java, PHP, Python, Ruby, and other languages have shaped my experiences. I have dabbled in various frameworks, backend, frontend, and even webmaster roles (RIP webmasters!).

In addition to my work as a developer, I am an active member of the development community, having led the Java Users Group of Triângulo Mineiro (UAIJUG) from 2009 to 2018. During that time, I participated in and organized events, lectures, and courses to promote the Java ecosystem in the region.

The hard-mode timeline

1999First software project. Professional work starts in 2003.

2008Chronic Kidney Disease. Both kidneys gone; dialysis in the morning, work in the afternoon and evening.

2013Kidney transplant — my mother-in-law offered hers.

2015Transplant rejection. Back to hemodialysis. (You now know a man who lost his mother-in-law’s kidney.)

2016Health forces a pause. Three kidneys lost, two legs broken.

2023Return to full-time engineering — and to writing.

If life were a game, I would say I was brought here to play on hard mode. And I am a very good player.

Want to take your part in this story?

Email me, or find me on GitHub and LinkedIn. What happens next is a story yet to be written.

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