CFR inspired by son to compete in World Transplant Games

Frank Rooney, a Community First Responder for Airdrie Group, competed in the World Transplant Games in Germany this year, inspired by his son’s journey after being given a second chance of life.

Frank said his son John-Paul was born with kidney failure in 2010.

He said: “For the first three years of his life, dialysis kept him alive, but it could never give him the freedom and energy a child deserves.”

Four years after his birth, Frank became his living kidney donor.

He added: “As a father, the decision was simple — it gave my son the gift of life for a second time. Watching him grow stronger and enjoy the childhood he deserved was the greatest reward imaginable.”

Following the transplant, Frank and John-Paul began competing together at the British Transplant Games.

He added: “Each year, the Games became a celebration of life, organ donation, and the second chance it gave our family. Beyond medals, they are about honouring donors, remembering those we’ve lost, and showing what is possible through transplantation.”

Speaking of competing in Dresden, Frank said it was a privilege to represent GB where he proudly won a silver medal in the 100m sprint and three bronze medals in the triathlon, long jump, and 5000m race.

He said: “Competing internationally alongside recipients and donors from around the globe was an unforgettable experience — living proof of the power of donation.”

He said John-Paul was once again in need of another kidney transplant.

Frank added: “It is a reminder that there is no cure for kidney failure and transplanted organs don’t last forever, but the years they give are priceless.

"His first transplant gave him freedom, opportunities, and memories we may never have had without organ donation. Becoming a living donor wasn’t a sacrifice — it was a gift.

"And I want to encourage others to think about it too, you never know, you could even join me at the British Games next year.”