Charlotte Douglas

Name:
Charlotte Douglas

Date of Birth:
4th June 1997

Country:
England

Since when have you been transplanted?
2019

Which organ was transplanted?
Kidney

Why was the transplantation necessary, and what has it enabled you to do?
When I was 20 years old, I was getting regular blood tests for another health condition I have (Crohn’s disease), and they showed that my kidneys were not functioning correctly. Over the next two years, my kidney function deteriorated, and despite the doctors’ best efforts to solve the problem, I ended up needing dialysis for a short while. Luckily, my incredibly generous mum was cleared to donate one of her kidneys to me.

Before the transplant, I was always an active person, attending dance classes and going for the occasional run. However, when my kidneys deteriorated, it became difficult due to constant fatigue. Now, after the transplant, I feel full of energy and am more active and fitter than ever. I love running in the countryside, training to become faster, and working as a science tutor.

How was the time for you just before and after the transplant?
Directly before my transplant was a challenging time. I was trying to balance working as a teacher, completing a master’s degree, and staying somewhat active, all while on dialysis. I was tired and cold all the time! After my transplant, I felt a huge sense of relief, not only because the operation was successful and both my mum and I were okay, but also because I knew I would soon get my active life back.

What role does sport play in your life?
Sport plays a huge role in my life. I have always been active and find that it’s such a good way to clear my mind after a hectic day, enjoy the outdoors, and stay fit and healthy. I enjoy the challenge of improving myself each season, but most of all, I love the friendships that come from participating in sports.

What have you already achieved in sports?
I have competed in three British Transplant Games, winning gold medals in the 5km road race and 1500m races each year. I’ve also competed in the racewalk, 200m, and 400m, winning gold medals in these events as well. This year, I tried something new and did bowling, earning a bronze medal.

I’ve competed in two European Games, in Oxford and Lisbon. At both, I won silver medals in the 5km and 1500m events. At the most recent European Games, I also won a gold medal in the 200m, along with silver medals in the 400m, 800m, and relay.

Finally, I’ve competed in one World Transplant Games, where I entered five individual events and the relays, coming away with three golds, two silvers, and three bronze medals.

Outside of the Transplant Games, I like to compete in local running races of all distances, from track races to half marathons, and I’ve even signed up for a marathon this October!

What do you associate with the World Transplant Games, and why are you excited about WTG2025 in Dresden?
If I had to describe the Transplant Games in one word, it would be inspirational. I love seeing so many people with organ transplants come together to show the world how important organ donation is and how it gives people a second chance to enjoy sports and pursue their passions.

I am looking forward to Dresden for many reasons. First, it’s a chance to catch up with my friends from different countries. Second, it will be my first time in Germany, and I’m excited to do some sightseeing. Finally, I am eager to represent Team GB and compete in the events I’ve been working hard to improve for the coming year.

In which competitions will you likely compete in Dresden?
I haven’t fully decided yet, but I’m likely to compete in the 5km road race and some other track running events!