“With a donated organ, a normal life is possible”
Seppe Valy knows firsthand what it means to be given a second chance. In 2016, at just 14 years old, he was diagnosed with liver failure. The exact cause remained unclear – a blood clot had affected his liver, and within just 36 hours, he needed an urgent transplant to survive. “Without the new organ, it would have been over,” Seppe recalls. Now, nine years after his transplant, he leads a normal, active life with just one small difference: “I have to take some medication, but that’s it. I’m very happy that it was the liver – I think it’s one of the easier organs.”
A message of hope for transplant recipients worldwide
For Seppe, competing in the World Transplant Games 2025 is about much more than just sports. It is his way of honoring his organ donor and inspiring other transplant recipients. “Especially in the beginning, many don’t know what the future will look like. I want to show them that everything can return to normal again. It’s a second chance at a completely normal life.” Seppe does not know who his donor was – only that the liver came from Germany. But competing in Dresden feels like a symbolic return to the country that saved his life.
The World Transplant Games for the first time in Germany
Seppe will be visiting Dresden for the first time, and he is excited to be part of a historic moment: “It’s incredible that the World Transplant Games are taking place in Germany for the first time. I looked at pictures and social media – Dresden looks like a beautiful city!” One of the moments he is looking forward to the most is the Opening Ceremony, which left a deep impression on him at previous Games: “When the families of organ donors enter the arena – that’s one of the most emotional moments I’ve ever witnessed.” The 2025 edition of the Games will be special, as the event will be even more open to the public, allowing more people to experience the power of organ donation firsthand.
Family as the greatest support
Seppe will not be traveling to the Games alone – his parents and sister will accompany him. “They were with me in Lisbon during the european championships as well. They saw me at my worst in the hospital, and now they see me at my best. We are on this journey together. ”And when he’s on his bike, every bit of encouragement counts: “When you’re racing and people are cheering for you, it definitely gives you an extra push!”
Organ donation saves lives
Through his story, Seppe not only wants to raise awareness for the World Transplant Games 2025, but also highlight the importance of organ donation. “Without organ donation, so many people wouldn’t be here today,” he says. “Every donation means a second chance – and one donor can save up to seven lives.” The World Transplant Games 2025 in Dresden will be a historic and unforgettable event – the first ever to be hosted in Germany. Athletes like Seppe Valy demonstrate what is possible through organ donation – a new chance for life, sport, and community.
Text: Agentur Sender und Empfänger; Photos: Seppe Valy (private)
