John Loftus from Clarina in Co. Limerick nearly died from a rare virus in 1992 and seven years ago he underwent a kidney transplant – now he will represent Ireland at the World Transplant Games in Bangkok this month.

The father of four is one of the 23 Irish representatives competing at the World Games.

“I contracted a rare virus in 1992 that nearly killed me – this led to the deterioration of my kidney function and I received a transplant in October 2000,” said John.

“Before the transplant I was on home dialysis for a year which was tough. I was attached to a machine for ten hours every night so I had to structure my life around the dialysis.”

The only Limerick competitor, John will compete as a Super Veteran when he travels to Thailand for the Games. He will take part in the shot putt, 100m track, ball throw, table tennis, ten-pin bowling and in the relay.

“I will be definitely hoping for a medal, if I avoid injury.  I wouldn’t do it if I wasn’t prepared to give it a good lash and I have put in a lot of training,” said John.

The self-confessed sports fanatic played hurling, soccer, rugby and Gaelic football, in which he captained Ballybrown to a county title. His real passion is hurling and he co-managed the Ballybrown hurling team to an All-Ireland Senior Club final in 1990.

“Unfortunately we were narrowly beaten by Ballyhale Shamrocks, (Kilkenny) on the day” he said.
The financial consultant with Canada Life won a bronze medal at badminton at the European Games in Slovenia 2004 and this will be his first time competing in the World Games.

The Limerick man stressed the important role the transplant recipients play in raising awareness of organ donation.

“The people who benefit from the organ donations really need to champion the fact that they are a donor recipient and get out there and fight for the cause. We owe it to the system to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.”

John’s wife Trish and his 15 year-old daughter Tara will travel to Bangkok to support his bid for world glory. Meanwhile his three sons Evan, Craig and Kyle will cheer their dad on from home.

You can follow John and the Irish team’s progress on www.transplantteamireland.com.
For an organ donor card free text the word ‘DONOR’ to 50500 or log on to www.ika.ie for more information.