WOKINGHAM’S Helen Wilson has been selected to represent Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the 2019 World Transplant Games.
Wilson, who has undergone both liver and kidney transplants, is part of a 330-strong team which will descend on Newcastle later this year.
“Having my life saved not just once but twice by such generous and selfless acts of kindness really puts things into perspective,” said Wilson.
“I am now successfully competing in archery and athletics events that I had never done before and I have met some incredibly inspirational people in my travels from other donor recipients to wonderful donor family members.
“Also people who are supporting and looking after me, specifically coach Ken Spencer, chiropractor Prab Chandhok and podiatrist Richard Roll.
“The importance of organ donation and having the conversation with your family to share your wishes should not be underestimated as there are over 6,000 people on the organ donor list.
“Too many of these will not be able to hold on long enough to receive their much needed transplant.”
The World Transplant Games take place every two years, featuring a week-long event including 17 different sports with Team GB and NI one of 54 nations involved.
The British team was selected following the national Transplant Games in Birmingham last year with Wilson also due to compete in that event again in July, this time in Newport, Wales, before the World Games in August.
Wilson is looking to raise funds to go towards the Transplant UK team through a quiz night at The White Horse pub on Easthampstead Road on April 6 and also via her JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Helen-Wilson70.
