The brave Wicklow man received a kidney transplant in 1996 and the 16th World Transplant Games, which run from Saturday, August 25th, to Sunday, September 2nd, will be an emotional experience for him.

“To get a second chance at life and to be part of a group of people who are celebrating their transplants is a life-changing event,” he said.

“Everyone is there to give thanks to their donor families and promote organ donation and, at previous Games, there were many tears and occasions for laughter too.”

Healthy living through sport is an important part of the rehabilitation of a transplant recipient. Garry has found that his lifelong love of sport has played a vital role in his well being on both a physical and emotional level.

Garry – from Killincarrig in Greystones – feels that it can be very difficult for many people to adjust to life coping with illness, dialysis and then a second chance at life. The World Transplant Games is an opportunity for transplant recipients from all over the world to give thanks for their special gift.

At this year’s Games Garry will participate in golf, bowling (singles and doubles) and petanque.  
The father of two was up against stiff competition at the European Transplant and Dialysis Games in Hungary last year when he took on his team captain in the final of the darts competition – and won.

Garry won a gold and silver medal for golf at the World Games in France, 2003 and two years ago in Canada he took a silver in the same sport.

“I hope that my involvement in the Irish team will help heighten awareness about organ donation in Co. Wicklow and all over Ireland,” said the athlete.

He will be among 23 Irish athletes going for gold in Bangkok this month.

“My wife Una and daughter Tara will travel to support me and the Irish team. My son Gavin and grandson Conor (4) will support us from home. Some friends are also joining us in Bangkok to watch the competitions,” added Garry.

You can follow the athletes’ progress 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.