Chikoyo White, who lives in Flemington, Balbriggan, has been on haemodialysis since February 2001 after she experienced kidney failure. 
She will be one of 24 Irish athletes taking part in the fifth European Transplant & Dialysis Games which kick off at the end of this month in Wurzburg, Germany.

Her husband Colin, an employee of the Irish Kidney Association, is the team manager.

“I have been on dialysis since February 2001. I was originally on dialysis at Beaumont Hospital, but was later transferred to the satellite unit at Northern Cross,” said Chikoyo.

It is important for people on dialysis to keep fit and healthy as possible to ensure that they are in the best shape to handle a transplant operation should an opportunity arise.

“I have competed at the National Transplant & Dialysis Games since 2004, and have won medals in Ten Pin Bowling, Ball Throw, and 100m. At this year’s Irish Games I won medals in all three events,” added Chikoyo.

“But, more than anything else, these events are about promoting awareness of the value of organ donation. They keep this very important issue to the forefront of people’s minds.”

The European Transplant and Dialysis Games also promote the idea of healthy living through sport. In addition, they afford transplant recipients an opportunity to give thanks for the gift of their transplants.

Ireland will send 24 athletes to the Games, and they will be joined by family and friends. “It’s not just about the medals, but about the chance to celebrate the gift of life. That’s what makes these Games so special,” said team manager Colin.

You can follow the progress of the Irish team on www.transplantteamireland.com. For an organ donor card free text the word ‘DONOR’ to 50050 or for more information log on to www.ika.ie.