Patrick Whymark of Lisarow is set to compete in the World Transplant Games in Perth from April 15 to 21.
The games will be a week of sport and celebration for all those who have received a life-saving transplant, promoting the important message that transplants save lives – and every Australian can leave a legacy by registering as an organ and tissue donor.
Whymark, 60, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2014 and the once avid surfer was then unable to work and had to undergo an urgent bone marrow transplant.
His recovery was long, and he spent the next few years of his life heavily medicated and regularly attending the hospital for check-ups.
Whymark never let his positivity waver and over the years his health gradually improved.
He returned to work for Central Coast Council, re-ignited his love of surfing and completed a Masters of Arts at the University of New England.
Now ready for his next challenge, Whymark will represent Australia in volleyball, tenpin bowling, discus and shotput in the World Transplant Games.
“For me and my family, getting to connect with people who have had similar experiences to mine is definitely the best part of the Games,” Whymark said.
“I’m a sports lover so getting to not only watch but also compete in an event like this is just a dream come true.
“I think there’s going to be some amazing competition and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Over the six days of the games, 17 sports will involve people who have received transplanted organs such as heart, liver, lung, kidney, pancreas and bone marrow.
Transplant Australia CEO and World Transplant Games Federation President, Chris Thomas, said with more than 1,800 Australians now waiting for a transplant it was crucial to promote the positive message of the lives saved through the gift of life.
“Every Australian can make a difference by registering as a donor,” he said.
“It takes just one minute but has the potential to give someone years of extra life.
“These games demonstrate what transplant recipients can achieve on the sporting field.
“Transplant Australia is committed to improving the lives of those waiting and those who have received a transplant and is proud to work with federal and state governments to achieve our shared vision for Australia in donation and transplantation.”
The Australian Government through the Commonwealth Department of Health and the Organ & Tissue Authority and the Government of Western Australia are Major Partners of the Games.
To register as donor, visit https://www.donatelife.gov.au/register-donor-today.
Source:
Media release, Mar 21
Transplant Australia