Heilie Uys
72, Kidney recipient
Name:
Heilie Uys
Date of birth:
24/06/1952
Country:
South Africa
Since when have you been transplanted?
13 March 2004
Which organ was transplanted?
Kidney
Why was the transplantation necessary, and what has it enabled you to do?
I contracted an autoimmune disease, Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), which caused kidney failure. As a Nephrology Nurse, I chose home automated peritoneal dialysis. After 3 years, 3 months, and 3 days, I was transplanted. Then the miracles started! New energy, a greater zest for life, and joining Transplant Sports.
How was the time for you just before and after the transplant?
Before my transplant, I remained involved with my profession and stayed fit by playing golf. After the transplant, with new energy, I resumed participating in athletics field events and continued playing golf.
What role does sports play in your life?
Sport has always been my passion, from athletics field events to tennis, squash, karate, and golf—anything I can hit or throw!
What have you already achieved in sports?
Looking back on my 20 years post-transplant, I thank the Lord for keeping me healthy and for the support team (my family) in my life.
I have competed in 10 consecutive South African Transplant Games and 9 consecutive World Transplant Games (WTG) since 2005.
WTG achievements:
- Gold medals: 29
- Silver medals: 9
- Bronze medals: 1
- World records: 7
What do you associate with the World Transplant Games, and why are you excited about WTG2025 in Dresden?
Being part of the World Transplant Games (WTG) and representing South Africa gives me a sense of humility, knowing that my donor made it possible with the unselfish Gift of Life. I enjoy the camaraderie that every athlete experiences as part of the big Transplant Sports family. WTG 2025 in Dresden will be my 10th WTG, God willing—a personal milestone, and I look forward to celebrating it in Dresden. Dresden’s historic center was heavily damaged during World War II but has been meticulously restored. Similarly, I was damaged by kidney failure, and the transplant miraculously restored me.
In which competitions will you likely compete in Dresden?
Golf, shot put, discus, javelin, ball throw
