Ken Fletcher competes in five sports at the Australian Transplant Games
Ken Fletcher, double lung transplant recipient, competes across five sports at the Transplant Games in Launceston this week.
Ken Fletcher is competing in swimming, lawn bowls, tenpin bowling, golf, and darts at the Australian Transplant Games in Launceston this week. The 71-year-old became critically ill in Cairns in 2014, and his weight dropped to 67 kilograms.
His family was called to his hospital room to say goodbye. A donor became available just in time and he received his first double lung transplant in 2016.
The first set of lungs kept him alive but began failing after a year, and a second transplant in November 2016 gave him the life he has now. Fletcher chairs Transplant Australia's Tasmania branch and uses his story to honour donors and inspire other recipients.
He played basketball at the 2024 games but a fractured eye socket from a stray elbow keeps him sidelined this year.
- 71
- Fletcher's age
- 67 kilograms
- Weight at lowest point
- 2016
- First transplant year
- November 2016
- Second transplant month
Why it mattersThe story showcases how organ donation transforms lives and enables transplant recipients to pursue active, meaningful lives. It highlights the resilience of people like Fletcher who honour their donors through continued participation and community leadership.
AustraliaCelebrates organ donation success in Australia and inspires others on the transplant waiting list.
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