Hi, I’m Jess, a proud kidney transplant recipient of 6 years and almost science graduate who’s just been given a second chance to chase a once-in-a-lifetime dream.

At 23, I was diagnosed with stage four kidney failure when my son was just four years old . With just 20% kidney function, I enrolled in an enabling course at the University of Newcastle, determined to build a future for us. I received my transplant at 26, and while recovery wasn’t easy, I never let go of that goal.

Fast forward to 2025: I’m about to complete my science degree with distinction, majoring in chemistry with biomedical science, and I’m set to begin honours research in transplant immunology in 2026.

But this year, I faced a string of health setbacks and thought the dream of competing was over. I’d been training over summer, hoping to make the team but encountered several health complications that saw the dream slip away.

Then, a lifeline: with just 46 days to go, I’ve been given the chance to represent Australia at the World Transplant Games in Germany.

From couch potato to sprint triathlete… it’s on.

This isn’t just about sport. It’s about rewriting a story.

This is the transplant spirit!

From hospital beds to research labs, from struggling to walk laps, to training for a triathlon. It’s about celebrating the gift of life, and the medical miracle of organ transplantation.

Some of the hurdles to get to the starting line:

• International flights

• Games registration

• Travel insurance

• Accommodation

• Tri gear such such as, wetsuit, etc

• Open Water lessons

• All those “little things” that add up fast

Any remaining funds will be donated in full to the Hunter Transplant Research Foundation, in gratitude and in hope.

If you believe in second chances, in science, in sport, and in the kind of Aussie comeback you never saw coming, I’d love your support.

While you’re here… If my story has moved you, please consider registering as an organ donor. It takes just a minute, and it could give someone the second chance at life I was lucky enough to receive. You can register here: https://www.donatelife.gov.au/register-donor-today Thank you so much for your support - every share, donation, and act of kindness makes a difference.