In the heart of Denver, from June 18 to 23, 2026, the Transplant Games of America brought together a unique community of athletes with a shared story. Among them was Bob Easter a retired business executive and lifelong athlete from Evanston who competed not just for personal glory, but to raise awareness for a cause close to his heart: living organ donation.
With over 90,000 people in the United States waiting for a kidney, and 11 to 13 deaths daily due to the shortage, Easter’s mission is more than just a personal challenge. It’s a race against time to save lives and inspire others to consider living kidney donation.
The power of living kidney donation
The National Kidney Donation Organization (NKDO) co-founded by Emily Polet-Monterosso and Ned Brooks is at the forefront of this cause. Polet-Monterosso, a living kidney donor herself, describes NKDO as a community of donors, recipients, and advocates working together to combat the kidney waitlist problem.
The organization’s work is inspired by the concept of kidney chains developed by economist Al Roth. These chains start with an altruistic donor, whose kidney goes to a stranger, creating a ripple effect that can save multiple lives. NKDO focuses on advocacy, education, and community engagement, providing wraparound services that go beyond what transplant centers typically offer.
Polet-Monterosso emphasizes that living kidney donors often feel a strong desire to continue helping after their donation. She says, “Living kidney donors on the other side of their donation have kind of done already the biggest thing they can do to try and combat the problem of the kidney donation waitlist.” This passion drives them to mentor new donors and raise awareness in their communities.
The Transplant Games: a celebration of life
The Transplant Life Foundation which organizes the biennial Transplant Games of America describes the event as a “love fest”. This year’s games in Denver brought together 966 living donors and organ recipients setting a new Guinness World Record. With 8,000 to 10,000 attendees and an estimated economic impact of $6 million to $8 million the games are more than just a sporting event.
They are a testament to the power of organ donation and the resilience of those who have received a second chance at life. The games feature 20 athletic and recreational events from traditional sports like swimming and basketball to unique competitions like Texas Hold’em Poker and Lyrics for Life.
Bob Easter’s athletic achievements and advocacy
At 70 years old Bob Easter competed in three events: the 50-yard freestyle swim the 100-yard freestyle swim and the 5K run all within his age group and division. His dedication paid off, as he won three gold medals beating his personal targets in each event.
However, Easter’s focus was never on the medals. His true goal was to raise awareness and funds for the National Kidney Donation Organization. Through his participation in the games and a persuasive letter to friends and relatives, he raised 97% of his $30,000 goal.
Easter’s journey is a powerful example of how sports can be used as a platform for advocacy. His story, along with those of other athletes at the Transplant Games, serves as a reminder of the incredible impact that living organ donation can have on individuals and communities.
As we look ahead to the next Transplant Games in St. Paul, Minnesota from August 4 to 9, 2028 we can only hope that more people will be inspired by Easter’s story and consider the life-saving power of living kidney donation.
