This will be our fifth year attending the British Transplant Games. For the 2022 Games, Keira will be competing in table tennis, a 3km walk and ten pin bowling. Kirsty, Megan, Grandad and Aunty Emma will be challenging themselves to take part in the 5km Donor Run and for a little bit of pre-training someone thought that it would be a good idea for Grandad, Uncle Luke, Kirsty and Megan to try and complete a 5km mud run with obstacles! For those of you who know Kirsty well, then you will know that there are some things in life that she really does not like and mud is pretty high up there on that list!! 

We have such a brilliant time each year at the British Transplant Games. It really is a wonderful celebration of life and a great support network for Keira and us as a family. Thank you so much for supporting us and the other children at King's who have had a life-changing transplant. We are all fundraising for the British Transplant Games Fund D2338. 

King’s runs the largest liver transplantation programme in Europe and carries out some 50 paediatric transplants per year. Every year around 20 King’s transplant children and their families attend the British Transplant Games; King's wants to grow this team to enable more children to share the benefits.

Although most children return to a normal life after transplant, they are left with scars, and many experience weight gain and psychological effects. These visible differences from their peers can make transplant children feel very isolated. Being part of a team provides support long after the event, and creates lifelong memories. With King’s patients coming from across the country, the Transplant Games is an important way to bring families together and encourage children to strive to reach their potential.

The Games are far more than just a weekend away and the psychological benefits are worth investing in. The Games may appear to be about sport but they are also about friendship, confidence and building support networks. It is very important that Transplant children know they are not alone, that they are not so 'different' or isolated in their experiences. It is hugely important for their self-esteem and self-confidence and to help them cope with everything they go through in life.

For more information on the Transforming Liver Care appeal - support networks please visit - http://supportkings.org.uk/building-support-networks