​With more than 123,000 people waiting for a life saving organ transplant, the need to educate the public about organ and tissue donation has never been more important. For transplant recipients, the Transplant Games is an opportunity to honor those who have given the gift of life. It is because of the selfless act of living and deceased donors that an event like the Transplant Games is possible. It is an honor to share our team member and donor sister Tina Vanderhorst's reflection about her first experience at the 2014 Donate Life Transplant Games.

When I walked into the TGA opening ceremony with the other Donor Families, I never knew my heart could feel so much love and appreciation from others. We received a standing ovation with cheers of gratitude and respect. I was awe inspired on how the organ recipients so deeply appreciate their second chance at life. To watch them compete in the games and live life to the fullest, also filled my heart with joy. It was an honor to be there to cheer and encourage the organ recipients and living donors, as it was a healing process I could never imagine experiencing.
-Tina Vanderhorst, Donor Sister