Our superstar Bristol Children’s Hospital team took on the British Transplant Games. Read on to discover more about the event, why it means so much to patients and the generous supporters who make it possible.
Between Thursday 6 and Sunday 9 August, young transplant recipients and supporters from Bristol Children’s Hospital travelled to Sheffield to take part in the British Transplant Games 2026.
Held annually, the games celebrate the life-changing gift of organ donation, bringing together teams from across the UK for a weekend of sporting achievement and celebration. For many families, it is a valuable opportunity to reconnect with a community that truly understands the transplant journey, while showcasing just how much can be achieved after a transplant.
Izzy’s Story
Among those representing Bristol Children’s Hospital this year was ten-year-old Izzy, whose life was transformed by a kidney transplant in 2019.
Born five weeks premature, Izzy was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure when she was just two days old. After receiving a life-saving kidney transplant at the age of two, she began to thrive.
Izzy and her brother Sebby first attended the British Transplant Games in 2022 and have proudly taken part every year since.
Izzy’s familyAttending the Transplant Games is super special. It is such a privilege to be part of an amazing community of people who have defied the odds and are living their best lives.
Speaking ahead of the games, Izzy said “I like being part of a community who have been through a similar experience. I really love representing Bristol Children’s Hospital and trying my best at new sports, knowing everyone is there to support you.”
Noah’s Story
Another inspirational member of the team this year was Noah, whose journey has already overcome extraordinary challenges.
At 11 weeks old, Noah was diagnosed with Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 1, a rare, genetic life-threatening liver disorder that led to complete kidney failure. Over the years, he underwent haemodialysis six days a week before receiving both a liver and kidney transplant.
The games have played an important role in Noah’s journey. He first attended in 2023, only a few months after his kidney transplant. For him, the event is about far more than sporting achievements.
Noah, Transplant Games ParticipantIt’s nice that everybody has had a transplant like me, we’re all the same and I feel less different there.
For Noah’s family, the games are just as important. “Attending the Transplant Games means the word to our family,” they said. “Meeting the donor families is also incredibly special. Our children wouldn’t be here without their bravery.”
The Games
The British Transplant Games celebrate the incredible achievements of transplant recipients while raising awareness of the importance of organ donation and the profound difference it can make to families like Izzy’s and Noah’s.
Thank You
We’re proud to fund and facilitate the team’s accommodation, registration fees, activities at the games and their kit, helping Bristol Children’s Hospital patients and families take part in this inspiring event.
A huge thank you to the generous supporters whose contributions helped make this year’s trip possible:
PAAST – The Professional Advisory & Assurance Services Limited
Staff members at Bristol Children’s Hospital
Your support enables children and teenagers living with transplants to create unforgettable memories, challenge themselves in new ways and celebrate just how far they have come.
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