Derriford transplant patients will fly the South West flag at World Games

Three competitors from the South West are representing Team Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the 21st World Transplant Games in Malaga this week.

The three inspirational individuals, who are all recipients of kidney transplants at Derriford Hospital, will fly out to Malaga this weekend, ready to participate in a number of events throughout next week.

The competitors are:

Tracy Carroll from Helston, who received her transplant in 2011, will be competing in swimming events – 50m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke
Stephen Jarvis from St Austell, who received his transplant in 2004, will be competing in 5km time trial bike, 100m track, 200m track, 400m track, high jump plus relay

Terry Wright from Looe, who received his transplant in 2002. This will be the seventh time he has represented Team GB at the World Transplant Games. He will be competing in 100m track, long jump, 5K walk, table tennis singles and table tennis mixed doubles.

Claire West, Deputy Team Manager, said: “The Team are really looking forward to the Games next week. All three individuals, selected to represent Team GB, are truly inspirational. They not only demonstrate the importance of organ donation but also what a real difference a transplant can make to someone’s life.”

“I am delighted to have been selected by Team GB to take part in the World Games,” said Tracy, who received her kidney transplant in 2011 at Derriford Hospital and receives her follow-up monitoring at the Royal Cornwall Hospital. “This is my second time and I am really looking forward to raising awareness of organ donation and celebrating with my team and the friends I made at the last World Games in Argentina.

“I hope our achievements show people what a wonderful gift donation can be. If I come home with one medal, whatever colour, I shall be extremely happy.”

The World Transplant Games, one of the largest multi-sports events, is held every two years and demonstrates the physical success of transplant surgery and the ability of transplant recipients to lead normal, healthy lives. The event aims to significantly enhance the understanding and acceptance of organ donation.

The Games will take place from 25 June to 2 July 2017.