Students and staff take part in the launch of The British Transplant Games

On Friday 19th July 2019, nursing students and staff from Cardiff University’s School of Healthcare Sciences and students from Cardiff University’s School of Music took part in the launch of The British Transplant Games at Friar’s Walk, Newport.

The Games, organised on behalf of Transplant Sport, aim to increase public awareness of organ donation and encourage transplant recipients to lead active lifestyles - all whilst appreciating and remembering donors and their families.

The students and staff sang in the Believe Organ Donation Support (ODS) Choir alongside people whose lives have been impacted by organ donation.

Believe ODS is a charity established with the aim of educating people on the topic of organ donation and supporting those involved. The charity was established by Anna-Louise Bates in memory of her late husband, Stuart and son, Fraser whose organ and tissue donations went on to save many lives.

The rendition of Calon Lân was warmly received by attendees and thanks and praise were offered by representatives of Welsh Government.

Richard Hellyar, Adult Nursing Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences, said "There are around six thousand people needing an organ transplant in the UK and unfortunately someone dies every day waiting".

"By our students engaging with Believe and the British Transplant Games, they help to spread the message about the importance of discussing your wishes with your loved ones and contribute towards increasing awareness and education surrounding organ donation".