However, within the Irish camp there is one squad member who is not kitted out in her national kit. Liza Nikkinen is a 28-year-old Swedish native, from Stockholm, who chose to represent Ireland in the World Transplant Games This was an “easy decision” for Nikkinen, who was given an Irish liver two years ago.

 Liza moved to Ireland seven years ago to work with horses. After spending two years at a stud farm in Co. Kildare, Liza secured a job in Naas Court Hotel, which she loves. In 2008, Liza fell ill and was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangities (PSC). This disease affects the liver and is caused by continuous inflammation and scarring of the organs bile ducts and the athlete was put on the transplant list. Liza accidently found out that she had this life threatening condition when she went to the hospital with flu-like symptoms. Nikkinen felt healthy after being diagnosed, until things took a turn for the worst fifteen months later. Liza was severely exhausted and could not stand up for more than five minutes. She developed Yellow Jaundice and was plagued with itchy skin. Because Liza was so ill and in hospital full time, she required an urgent transplant and received a donor liver within six months. Liza explained that she was very lucky that a suitable donor liver became available for her.

 Before Nikkinen fell ill, she didn’t think too much about fitness, sports or healthy life choices. Since been transplanted, Liza explains how much her life has changed. She leads an extremely healthy life now, where eating well and staying fit are her top priorities. When the opportunity arose to represent Ireland, Nikkinen grabbed it. The Irish representative explained “I had no hesitation when it came to choosing between the Irish or Swedish teams, my liver is Irish after all!” Liza’s future is in Ireland, where she currently lives with her sister. While she was ill, Liza received huge support from family, friends and from her work place. With excitement and happiness, Liza spoke with gratitude and passion of all the support given by Naas Court Hotel and by all the staff in St. Vincent’s hospital. Liza is proud to represent Ireland and proud of her Swedish heritage.

 Liza showed her fantastic athletic ability today at the 3km race walk, where she glided to victory, and got the gold medal. Soon after achieving this feat Liza then entered the Relay Race with Angela Sherlock, Sinead McGowan, and Megan Fahy, where they got the Bronze Medal. A big smile from Liza after tough and exciting day, showed all of Liza’s Irish team members and supporters that she is a top class winner, in life and in athletic team spirit.