Well done to Laura who took part in the British Transplant Games in Sheffield last Saturday. Laura took on the emotional and inspiring 5k as live liver donor, finishing as the 2nd live female donor. A brilliant achievement. Laura kindly provided us with a race report on the event. Read on to find out more…
The Transplant Games 2026 5km was a race unlike any other I have taken part in — and one that I certainly won’t forget.
For anyone involved in the transplant community, whether as a donor family, living donor or recipient, the event was incredibly emotional. People had travelled from hospitals and transplant teams across the UK to take part, with some recipients even flying over from Germany. It really felt like the whole transplant community had come together to celebrate life, generosity and everything that makes transplantation possible.
And what a day it was! The weather was fabulous and the whole of Sheffield seemed to have come out to show their support. The start line certainly wasn’t your usual race scene. Competitors were proudly wearing their team colours, complete with face glitter, capes, superhero masks and, of course, Garmins at the ready!
The Mayor of Sheffield officially started the race, and we headed off around the streets of the city alongside the 2.5km children’s race. The atmosphere was fantastic, with huge crowds cheering us on. One particularly special moment was running past Sheffield Hospital, where members of the nursing staff from the transplant team had come outside to support the competitors. Seeing them there made the whole experience even more meaningful.
The 5km route was lovely, although there were a few hills to provide an added challenge! I was absolutely delighted — and rather surprised — to finish as the second female.
But the result was really only a small part of what made the day so special. The overwhelming feeling was one of positivity, celebration and gratitude. There was so much support from the crowds, fellow competitors and everyone involved in organising the Games.
The Transplant Games are about so much more than sport. They bring together an incredible community and celebrate the gift of life in such a positive and uplifting way. Even if running isn’t your thing, there is something for everyone, with events ranging from swimming and archery to golf — and all the events are free to watch.
I would absolutely encourage anyone to go along and experience the atmosphere for themselves. I was completely blown away by the support and spirit of the day, and I’ll definitely be there to run and cheer everyone on at Birmingham 2028!
Laura Pearce
