#GoTeamBCH at Brum's British Transplant Games (2 - 5 August)
The waiting is almost over for our Team BCH superstars who are looking forward to competing in our home British Transplant Games later this week (2 – 5 August).
Our bumper squad of 57 children and young people, who have all been given the ‘Gift of Life’ through organ donation, will compete alongside thousands of others from around the country across a host of sports including athletics, swimming, tennis and badminton.
It’s the biggest team we’ve ever had proudly representing Birmingham Children’s Hospital and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome people from all corners of Britain to our city as an official partner of this year’s event.
Backed by family, friends and our dedicated games management team, who volunteer their time each year, Team BCH will be looking to defend its ‘Best Children’s Team’ prize for an amazing 22nd year running and surpass their impressive haul of 92 medals won at the 2017 event in North Lanarkshire.
The 41st instalment of the games promises to be record-breaking in a number of ways with top-class venues across Birmingham playing host to competition including the Alexander Stadium and the recently opened University of Birmingham Sport and Fitness Centre. The city’s Symphony Hall and ICC will also be hosting the opening and closing ceremonies.
Sara Clarke, Senior Specialist Dietician at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, has been part of Transplant Games management team for the past 16 years and has been part of the organising committee for the 2018 event. After months of hard work she can’t wait for the event to arrive.
She said:
“There’s always a real buzz at this time of year as we’re on the final countdown for the Transplant Games but this year is extra special with it being our home games.
“Everyone is so excited and we’ve been amazingly proud to be part of the team that’s helped organise this year’s event here in Birmingham.
“Our biggest ever team can’t wait for competition to start and show everyone just how transplantation saves and transform lives. I’m sure they will act as an inspiration for many to take the time, sign up to become a donor to give the ‘Gift of Life’ and talk about their choice with loved ones.”
To find out more about organ donation, including how you can quickly and easily register to become a donor, head to the Organ Donation website or call the Organ Donor Line on 0300 123 2323.
Keep up to date with how Team BCH are doing by following our Birmingham children’s Hospital Twitter account @bham_childrens and look out for #GoTeamBCH.