Kilkenny athlete overcomes kidney failure to compete in major event
A Kilkenny athlete will represent Ireland at the upcoming British Transplant Games
John Paul O’Neill, originally from Kilkenny and now living just outside Athy with his partner Tara, will proudly represent Ireland at the upcoming British Transplant Games in Sheffield, showcasing the life-changing impact of organ donation through sport.
Transplant Sport Ireland (TSI) celebrates the gift of organ donation by providing opportunities for transplant recipients, dialysis patients and living donors to participate in sport while raising awareness of the importance of organ donation both nationally and internationally.
TSI athletes proudly represent Ireland at events around the world, demonstrating what is possible thanks to the generosity of donors and their families.
John Paul comes from a sport-mad family and grew up alongside his sister Marie-Therese in Kilkenny, where sport was always at the heart of family life. However, his own sporting journey was interrupted when kidney failure led to him starting dialysis in late 1996.
His life changed forever in June 1998 when he received a kidney transplant.
“My journey started with dialysis in late 1996 and I was lucky to be transplanted in June 1998, I’ve never looked back,” he said.
“Since my transplant, I have a quality of life that is completely different and I have not spent a day or night in hospital since.”
Now, almost three decades later, John Paul remains profoundly grateful for the gift he received and the donor family whose selfless decision gave him a second chance at life.
“Without the unselfishness of the organ donor and their family, I would not be here to tell my story.”
For John Paul, every opportunity to compete is a chance to honour that gift.
“One of the things I am most proud of is still feeling so healthy and being able to represent TSI thanks to my donor.”
The British Transplant Games are about much more than medals and competition. They are a celebration of life, resilience and the extraordinary impact of organ donation. For athletes like John Paul, they are also an opportunity to pay tribute to donors and connect with others who understand the transplant journey.
“I love being around people who have amazing life stories and know how lucky we are to be able to represent our donor families.”
Away from competition, John Paul remains passionate about sport, following his beloved Kilkenny hurlers and supporting his local club, Cloneen Hurling Club. Sport continues to play a central role in his life, helping him stay active, healthy and connected to his community.
His message to anyone recovering from a transplant and considering getting involved in sport reflects the welcoming and supportive nature of the transplant community.
“Don’t keep putting it off from week to week. Turn up to a TSI training day, meet and chat with people who have all been through something similar and you won’t look back. There is a sport for everyone and always someone to talk to.”
As he prepares to wear the Irish jersey in Sheffield, John Paul will proudly represent Kilkenny, Athy, his donor family and the wider transplant community. His participation is a powerful reminder of the difference organ donation can make—not just in saving lives, but in enabling people to thrive, pursue their passions and achieve their goals.
Through sport, Ireland’s transplant athletes demonstrate the power of second chances. Every race run, every event completed and every medal won stands as a tribute to donors and their families whose generosity makes these achievements possible.
For more information about Transplant Sport Ireland, membership opportunities and upcoming events, visit TransplantSportIreland.ie or email [email protected].