This summer, families from across our Jessie May community headed to Sheffield for the 2026 British Transplant Games – a weekend that felt full of familiar faces, shared stories and those little moments that remind you why these gatherings matter so much.
Izzy’s Silver Medal Success
Among our amazing Jessie May families, was ten‑year‑old Izzy, whose life was transformed by a kidney transplant in 2019. Born five weeks premature and diagnosed with end‑stage kidney failure at just two days old, Izzy received a life‑saving transplant at the age of two and has been thriving ever since.
Izzy and her brother Sebby first attended the Games in 2022 and have proudly taken part every year since. This year, Izzy competed in the 25m freestyle swimming and came away with a brilliant silver medal.
Her mum shared:
“We had a lovely time and Izzy managed to get a silver medal in her 25m freestyle swimming. This year we had a big team, and the weather was fantastic in Sheffield. It was lovely to see how far all the children have come and meet new families.”
Noah’s Story
Another inspiration taking part this year, was nine‑year‑old Noah, who returned to Sheffield with his mum Beccy and dad Garth. Noah was born with Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 1 and needed both a liver and kidney transplant to survive – receiving his liver at ten months old and his kidney in 2023 after years of dialysis. For Noah, the Games are a place where he can simply be himself, surrounded by people who understand the ups, downs and everything in between.
Beccy told us:
“He said he doesn’t feel so different there.”
The Games have become a special part of their year, giving Noah the chance to spend time with friends he’s grown up alongside. This year, he travelled with Ariana – his best friend, who he first met as a baby on the Dialysis Unit at Bristol Children’s Hospital. They’ve been inseparable ever since, and attending the Transplant Games together has become a tradition they both look forward to.
As Beccy said:
“It’s nice to catch up with them and see how well the kids are doing.”
Read more about Noah’s Story here.
The Transplant Games aren’t just about medals – they’re about watching children find confidence, families finding each other, and celebrating the journeys that brought them here. Whether it’s cheering from the sidelines or sharing a quiet chat between events, these moments stay with families long after the weekend ends.
We’re incredibly proud of Izzy, Noah, and every child who took part this year. Their courage, determination and joy inspire us every day.
