LOCAL woman, Christine Hakeney, is celebrating after winning gold, silver and bronze medals at the British Transplant Games.
Christine received a kidney transplant 10 years ago from her sister Angie after inheriting polycystic kidney disease from her father, who died of the disease.
Christine fully recovered from the surgery and was straight back to being active. This year she decided to enter the British Transplant Games which has been running for over 30 years. The Games aim to demonstrate the benefits of transplantation, encouraging patients to regain fitness, whilst increasing public awareness of the need for more people to join the NHS Organ Donation Register and discuss their wishes with their families. They also seek to thank and celebrate donor families and the gift of life. But Christine did not just take part, she won gold in the 400m sprint, silver in the 100m sprint and bronze in the 200m sprint.
Christine said, “I have always been a keen runner and have loved sprinting especially since my school days.
“This was my first games and it won’t be my last – I’m already looking forward next year when they will take place in Scotland. The Games is open to all transplant patients, from as young as two years-old to 80 years- old.
“It was amazing to meet so many wonderful people from all over the country who all share a special bond. And to win three medals in my first games just made it even more special – I was especially delighted to win gold!
“My two daughters, Leanne and Gemma, travelled to Liverpool with me for the four-day event – they were a fantastic support.”
For more information about organ donation or to register your details on the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk
