Kate Green, Member of Learning Disability England, was recently invited to be part of the Transplant Games and shares her experience in this new blog…

Going to the Transplant Games was an amazing experience. It’s a bit like the Olympics, with sports like archery, track events, volleyball, and squash.

People from different transplant centres across the UK come together to take part.

I travelled from Berkshire to Oxfordshire for four days, and it was inspiring to see so many people celebrating life and recovery.

I’m a lady with a learning disability and a transplant recipient – and I know that all these parts of who I am shape how I experience the world. At the Games, I felt seen and understood as a whole person.

I was assigned to the volleyball section, and at first, I felt a little nervous.

Two years ago I’d been attacked in public, and my confidence was low when out and about.

But at the Games, I felt safe and supported. Everyone around me had been through transplants too, so we understood each other.

Being part of that community made me feel confident and included.

My journey to the Games hasn’t been easy. I’ve had a transplant and a learning disability, which made the process more confusing and traumatic at times.

I don’t remember a lot of what I went through, and my mum had to document it for me.

But the healthcare teams, especially at Kings College London, have been incredible, and I even had the chance to meet my donor family last October.

Discovering that my donor’s daughter had given birth on my birthday felt electrifying – it made the day even more special.

During the volleyball session, I used my crutches to hit the ball over the net. I felt proud and thrilled to be part of the action.

People often underestimate me because of my learning disability, but being there showed me that I am capable of achieving great things.

I also loved hearing stories from others, learning what had helped them recover, and sharing our experiences together.

There was a donor run too, and the whole atmosphere was buzzing. It felt like we had known each other for years.

I felt safe, supported, and part of something really important. The experience taught me about focus, determination, and celebrating small achievements.

The Transplant Games wasn’t just about sport – it was about community, resilience, and life. It was a momentous few days that reminded me of what’s possible, made me proud to be a survivor, and gave me hope for the future.

Nothing gets in my way – I can connect, achieve, and celebrate life.