Orla Hogan – Tipperary

Orla Hogan received a kidney from her brother Cathal in 2008 and lives in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary with her husband Ger. 

Orla will be competing in this year’s World Transplant Games in the 40-49 year age category in the following events:

• 5k Mini-Marathon
• Swimming – Breaststroke 50m
• Swimming – Freestyle 50m
• Ten Pin Bowling Singles
• Track & Field – 3km Racewalk

Orla has participated in the World Transplant Games in Australia 2009, Sweden 2011, South Africa 2013, and Spain 2017. She has also taken part in the European Transplant and Dialysis Sports Championships in Slovenia 2004, Hungary 2006, Dublin 2010, Poland 2014, Finland 2016 and Italy 2018.

Orla is a keen swimmer, swimming with the Masters Club in Nenagh, and enjoys walking and running to keep fit. She sees the Games as a way to thank her donors and raise awareness.

“My brother, Cathal, gave me my current kidney in 2008, which is my fourth and longest transplant.  I have three sisters and two brothers.

‘In doing the games I am honouring all the donors I’ve had. My mam was my first, two I do not know and lastly Cathal – all fantastic. I am creating awareness, and this is so important.

 ‘I would recommend the Games to anyone as they are great fun.  It keeps me exercising.  You meet many people as we all have a story.  We all support each other.  There is a great family feel to the team.’

 ‘The games to me is about promoting that organ donation works and gives new life.  I will be spending a week with my other family and we will have a great time.’

Orla would like to thank Sophie Hogan and Orla for sponsorship.