AECC UC Lecturer and Course Lead in Sports Rehabilitation Therapy Supports Athletes at The British Transplant Games

The British Transplant Games are an annual event organised by Transplant Sport, a charity that promotes organ donation and transplantation through sports. The Games have been running for over 40 years and serve as a celebration of life for transplant recipients.

The Games are held in different host cities each summer and bring together teams from hospitals across the UK. Participants, who are organ transplant recipients, compete in a variety of sports events. The Games provide an opportunity for transplant recipients to showcase their physical abilities and to celebrate the gift of life they have received through organ donation.

Each year, Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation, Michelle Evans, supports participating athletes as a sports therapist. She tells us more about the Games and her role within this exciting and inspiring event:

“During the British Transplant Games, my role as a sports therapist is to support the athletes. I assess and treat any injuries they may have, whether they occurred before the event or during the competition itself.

“It’s important to me that these athletes can continue to take part in the sports they love, so I provide the necessary interventions to help them recover and perform at their best.”

Working with Student Volunteers

“I also work closely with student volunteers, sharing my knowledge and experience with them. It’s a great opportunity for them to learn about sports therapy in a unique setting and understand the specific needs of transplant recipients involved in sports. Together, we ensure that the athletes receive the care they need to compete safely and enjoyably.

“One important task is organising a therapy seminar, aimed at providing continual professional development for therapy volunteers. This seminar serves as a platform for sharing information and knowledge among various therapists, including physiotherapists, sports therapists, sports rehabilitators, chiropractors, and osteopaths who are volunteering at the games.

“I firmly believe in the value of working as a multi-disciplinary team and sharing expertise to enhance the quality of care provided to the athletes.

“Additionally, I’ll be actively involved in the clinic during the athletic competition on the last day of the British Transplant Games. Here, I’ll be delivering therapy support to any athletes who require treatment.

“Whether it’s assessing and treating injuries, providing rehabilitation exercises, or offering advice on injury risk reduction, my goal is to ensure that the athletes can compete safely and perform at their best. Working directly with the athletes in the clinic allows me to provide personalised care tailored to their individual needs, contributing to their overall well-being throughout the event.”

Inspiration to Support the Transplant Games

“My inspiration to help at the British Transplant Games stems from a deep appreciation for the transformative power of sports and the profound impact of organ donation. I volunteered at my first British Transplant Games in Coventry in 2009.

“I’ve been actively involved in various transplant games, including the World Transplant Games, and even this year, the European Transplant Sports Championships in Portugal.

“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible spirit and determination of transplant athletes first hand, and it’s been a truly rewarding experience to be a part of these events.

“Witnessing the resilience and determination of transplant recipients as they participate in athletic competitions is incredibly inspiring. These individuals have overcome significant health challenges and received the gift of life through organ donation and seeing them thrive through sports is a testament to the life-changing impact of transplantation.

“Furthermore, as a sports therapist, I am passionate about using my skills and expertise to support athletes in achieving their goals and overcoming obstacles. The opportunity to contribute to the British Transplant Games allows me to combine my love for sports with my desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

“Moreover, being part of an event that celebrates life and raises awareness about the importance of organ donation is incredibly meaningful to me. By volunteering at the Games, I can play a small role in promoting organ donation and transplantation, helping to save lives and improve the quality of life for those in need.”

Opportunities to Take Part

“Students studying Sports Rehabilitation Therapy, such as those on the MSc Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation programme, would have valuable opportunities to get involved with events like the British Transplant Games.

“At these events, we normally take volunteers from the local area the games are occurring to give different therapists the opportunity to be involved. These events provide an excellent environment for students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, gaining practical experience and making meaningful contributions to the well-being of the athletes.

“Participating in events like the British Transplant Games can offer students hands-on experience in assessing and treating injuries, providing rehabilitation exercises, and working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Additionally, students have the chance to interact with transplant recipients and learn about the unique considerations involved in providing therapy to this population.”

Read more about MSc Sport and Rehabilitation and Therapy and MSc Sport and Exercise Rehabilitation .