Miren Ivankovic, 54
Tissue Recipient
Clemson, South Carolina
Transplant Games Attended: 2014, 2016, 2018
In 2010 Miren Ivankovic signed up for the Donate Life South Carolina 5k, his first race after he received a tissue donation during hip replacement surgery two years prior. The day of the race Miren celebrated becoming a tissue recipient, and the amazing impact donation and transplantation had on him personally. Prior to his hip surgery, Miren was barely able to walk without the assistance of crutches. However, thanks to one selfless donor and a cadaver bone, used to help repair and heal the damage in his right hip, Miren was able to begin living his life again.
As a recipient Miren has been actively involved with the Transplant Games of America, an experience he says he is incredibly honored to be a part of. Miren loves participating in the Transplant Games, where he finds competing and medaling inspirational. He credits the Transplant Games with opening his eyes to the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation.
Q&A with Miren
HOW HAS BEING A TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?
It is difficult to put into words. I literally do not take one day for granted any longer. To be able to stand up on my feet and walk, not to mention run, is tremendous!
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL TAKEAWAY FROM BEING A PART OF THE TRANSPLANT COMMUNITY?
All the beautiful people in this community, they are my heroes. I am proud to say that a picture of me and my friends is posted in the South Carolina DMV offices, reminding people to become organ donors.
HOW HAS BEING APART OF THE TRANSPLANT GAMES IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?
The Transplant Games has opened my eyes regarding donation and transplant; it has given me a closer look at the need for organ, eye and tissue donation, allows me to bond with the community as we celebrate for one week a year, and proves that I can measure up competitively, with fellow athletes, post-transplant.
“I would like to meet my donor family someday. It takes an incredibly special, selfless and brave family to do that.”- Miren Ivankovic
Donate today to help the Transplant Games continue our amazing work!
The Transplant Games of America is a six-day, festival style event that brings together the entire transplant community to celebrate the gift of life and to honor those who have given the gift of life.
Please consider donating to this special 30th Birthday Celebration so that we can continue to save lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.
The Transplant Games of America is an initiative of the Transplant Life Foundation, the nation's leading advocacy non-profit for those in the donation and transplantation community. To learn more about the Foundation, the Games and the work we do, visit our websites!