'Team Virginias'

The 2004 U.S. Transplant Games took place in Minneapolis, July 27-August 1.

"Team Virginias" is made up of organ recipients of all ages and types of transplants from Virginia and West Virginia. They proudly brought home a number of medals from Minnesota. Congratulations to all who attended, whether as an athlete, a volunteer, or as a member of a donor family! For a closer look at these most recent Games, click here.

The 2006 U.S. Transplant Games will be held in Louisville, Kentucky, June 16-21, 2006. More information will be announced as plans are finalized.. Stay tuned!

Some history: In 1954 in Boston, Drs. John Merrill and Joseph Murray headed a team that performed the first successful kidney transplant. Fifty years later, the U.S. Transplant Games- the largest transplant community gathering in the world- served as the national event to commemorate 50 years of saving lives through transplantation!

Dr. Murray, the guest of honor, and the thousands of recipients, donor families, living donors, transplant professionals, family members and friends converged in Minneapolis for this momentous and inspiring event.

'The Games' are more than an athletic competition. They are a true celebration of better lives, a tribute to selfless gifts and a testament to diligent care givers and the love of family and friends.