Dysart man John Cormican will compete for Ireland in the World Transplant Games for the eighth time this month. The carpenter received a kidney transplant in 1984 and has competed in every World Games, apart from one, since 1991.
The Roscommon man, who has won ‘about ten’ World medals said “I am hopeful, but I do not like to get over confident.”
The 16th World Transplant Games take place in Bangkok this year and will run from Saturday, August 25th until Sunday, September 2nd.
The athlete, who will compete in badminton, the long jump, a relay and 100m and 200m track, has enjoyed good health since his transplant.
“I was fairly ill before I had the transplant and I was on dialysis for two years,” he said.
“It is nearly 23 years since I got the gift of my kidney so I have got a good run out of it and I am very thankful.”
The World Games aim to highlight the importance of organ donation and promote the idea of healthy living through sport. They also allow the athletes an opportunity to give thanks for the gift of their transplants.
“Being able to compete is the best part of going to the competition. A medal is just a bonus,” said John.
“There is always such a good atmosphere at the Games and you get to meet some great people with similar experiences. I have travelled quite a bit to the different competitions and I always enjoy the experience.
“Organ donation is so important, I wouldn’t be able to take part in any of these events without a donation
so I hope the Games will raise more awareness about the need to carry an organ donor card.”
You can follow the team’s progress on www.transplantteamireland.com.
For an organ donor card free text the word ‘DONOR’ to 50050 or log on to www.ika.ie for more information.