Kieran Murray from Ramelton. Photo by Conor McCabe.
In just over one week’s time, Kieran Murray from Ramelton will travel with 28 other members of Transplant Team Ireland to Finland to participate in the European Transplant & Dialysis Sports Championships (10th – 17th July). Kieran who underwent a kidney transplant in 2013 will take part in the track and field events and golf at the championships in the 30-39 year old age category.
Speaking from his home this week, the father of three said ” I am looking forward to showcasing what can be achieved after an organ transplant, meeting up with my friends on Transplant Team Ireland including new members who have joined the team this year as well as meeting friends from other countries who participated in previous Games events and forging new friendships.
All participants have experienced organ failure and are embracing life through sport. I have previously taken part in the European Championships when they were held in Krakow, Poland two years ago where I was delighted to win 3 Gold and 1 bronze medal. Last year I took part in the World Transplant Games in Argentina where I achieved further success by winning 2 Gold and 1 Bronze medal.
I feel honoured to be representing my country but especially my kidney donor without whom all of this would not be possible. My main aim is to help create awareness about the importance of organ donation.”
Kieran and his teammates attended a motivational talk in which GAA All Star Alan Brogan shares his insights into the Dublin team’s winning ways with Transplant Team Ireland ahead of European Championships in Finland.
GAA Star Alan Brogan with Kieran Murray. Photo by Conor McCabe.
Alan Brogan “It was a pleasure to spend some time with these great athletes who will represent Ireland in the European Transplant and Dialysis Championships. They are amazing ambassadors for not only their families and friends but for Organ Donorship in general. I could sense the strong bond that exists throughout the group and even though every athlete is a winner at the games I’m confident that the Irish athletes have trained and prepared to their personal maximum to ensure they meet their own goals in Finland in July”.
Showcasing the importance of organ donation, 29 athletes will represent Ireland at the 9th European Transplant and Dialysis Sports Championships in, Vantaa, Finland in July.
Transplant Team Ireland. Photo by Conor McCabe.
Transplant Team Ireland, which comprises 23 men and 6 women ranging in age from 18 to 78, includes 22 transplant recipients (4 Liver, 17 Kidney, 1 combined Kidney/Pancreas) as well as 7 people who are receiving dialysis treatment.
We wish Kieran and his team mates the very best of luck.
If you would like more information on the European Transplant and Dialysis Sports Championships and the Irish athletes you can visit the Irish team’s blog or the Game’s website.
If you are interested in getting an organ donor card you can visit www.ika.ie or freetext the word DONOR to 50050.
