DENVER, COLORADO, USA: The Transplant Games of America, a biennial event celebrated since 1990, is set to arrive in Denver in 2026, marking its inaugural appearance in the city. With a focus on organ and tissue donation awareness, the games draw participants—both donors and recipients—from across the nation, fostering community and competitiveness. The event promises to transform Denver into a hub for transplant awareness, education, and celebration of life.
Prominent figures involved in the event include CEO Bill Ryan, kidney transplant recipient Mark McIntosh, and accomplished athlete Brandy Loeki. Mark McIntosh, eight months post-surgery, serves as a testament to the transformative power of organ transplantation. He attributes his renewed vitality to donor Kathy Hitchcock and expresses his gratitude by advocating for awareness about kidney disease, urging more people to consider organ donation.
In a sobering commentary, Mark highlighted the growing demand for organs, noting that over 97,000 people in the United States are waiting for kidney transplants alone. With only 30,000 transplants performed annually, there is a pressing need for increased donor registration. This shortage is exacerbated by underlying health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which heighten the risk of renal ailments.
Brandy Loeki, a transplant recipient and athlete, uses the games to demonstrate that organ donation can restore individuals to their previous activities and vigor. As a record holder in the 1500 meters event, she underscores the potential for a full, active life post-transplantation. She celebrates the sense of camaraderie built among participants, which is bolstered through ongoing interactions on social media and through planned reunion at the games.
The upcoming games, slated for June 18-23, 2026, are anticipated to draw more than 10,000 attendees, showcasing the restored health of participants and emphasizing the lifesaving impact of organ donation. As Denver gears up for this momentous occasion, the games promise to be a beacon of hope, resiliency, and community spirit, inspiring many to consider the profound impact of becoming an organ donor.
