Organ transplant donors and beneficiaries take center stage at 4th Middle East Transplant Games

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, the Supreme Chairperson of Family Development, the Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, the Chairwoman of the Council of Motherhood and Childhood and the President of the Family Development Foundation, METG, the largest sports gathering of organ transplant donors and beneficiaries, aims to raise public awareness about the importance of a healthy and active living post-transplant.

By competing in a variety of sport disciplines such as running, swimming, table tennis and bowling, participating organ transplant donors and those who have received an organ hope to showcase not just their athletic skills, but also educate the public the benefits of an active lifestyle.

"This year METG marks two important milestones. The event is being staged in Abu Dhabi for the first time, a testament to the unwavering commitment of the UAE's capital in promoting healthy living amongst nationals and residents, and, equally important, the games will witness participation of women, which will be another first for the region. In addition to exciting athletic competitions and activities, families can look forward to participate in a fun filled weekend with face painting, bouncy castle and other children's games," said Dr. Ali Al Obaidli, the Executive Director of the Medical Affairs Division in SEHA and President of the Congress of 13th Congress of the Middle East Society for Organ Transplantation.

Dr. Mohammed Hassan, Treasurer and Chair of the Transplant Games thanked all the sponsors for their overwhelming support, especially the gold sponsor, Daman Health Insurance, the first specialised health insurance company in the UAE; and the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company with the SEHA Health System. Hosting the 4th Middle East Transplant Games has been made possible by the generous support of the Armed Forces Offices Club, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

"Encouraging the public to adopt healthier and more pro-active lifestyle choices will require the efforts of not just one or two organisations, but the commitment of all sectors of society. We are hopeful that our message will continue to reverberate even after the games have ended," he added.

"Though the games are targeted to transplant patients, we encourage people of all ages to be active and participate in some simple sporting activity every day. A healthy and physically active lifestyle is a habit best formed when young; nevertheless, it's never too late to start. It is recommended that people exercise at least 30 minutes a day and the activity can be as simple as walking, running or swimming. Being physically fit reduces the risk of life style diseases such as diabetes, heart and kidney disease," he concluded.