Transplant Survivors To Compete In Grand Rapids
DETROIT (WWJ) - After undergoing a life-saving kidney transplant 19 years ago, Clinton Township resident Pamela Gerlach never thought she'd be able to take part in athletics.
But Gerlach plans to compete in singles and doubles bowling and the softball toss at the Transplant Games of America, a set of games for organ transplant survivors held Saturday through Tuesday.
"It's my first Transplant Games, and I'm very excited," Gerlach said. "In the end, it's not nearly as much about the competition as it is about the camaraderie and everyone being able to celebrate another chance at life."
The multi-sport event will be held at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids. Opening ceremonies will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Van Andel Arena.
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said each participant is living proof of the importance of Michigan's Organ Donor Registry.
"Whether they win the gold or not, each of these athletes is a testament to living life to its fullest, to embracing and celebrating the second chance they have been given," Johnson said.
Johnson said nearly 400,000 new donors registered in Michigan in 2011, with more than 500,000 people expected to register this year.
With more than 3,000 Michigan residents still waiting on transplants, Gift of Life Michigan CEO Richard Pietroski urges Michiganders to consider becoming donors.
"The athletes at the Transplant Games compete not just for themselves but in honor of their donor and the precious gift they have received," Pietroski said. "We encourage everyone to be a hero by registering to be an organ, eye and tissue donor."
Admission to Saturday's opening ceremony is $15. Johnson said the Secretary of State's Mobile Office will be in the lobby of the GVSU Fieldhouse from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday through Tuesday to help register new donors.
