Seventeen-year-old Scott Murray from Tramore is preparing to represent Ireland at the European Transplant Games in Arnhem, the Netherlands, in June, marking a remarkable return to elite sport following a life-changing illness.

Scott was recently honoured at a Mayoral Reception hosted by the Mayor of Waterford, Cllr Liam Brazil, ahead of his participation in the international games.

Scott will compete as part of a 25-strong Irish team selected by Transplant Sport Ireland. The team brings together transplant recipients, dialysis patients and living donors, highlighting the important role sport can play in recovery and in raising awareness of organ and tissue donation.

Scott’s journey to the European Transplant Games has been an extraordinary one. He was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia at a young age and underwent chemotherapy, but unfortunately the treatment proved unsuccessful. In 2022, he received a bone marrow transplant from a family member who became his donor, giving him a new opportunity to recover and rebuild his health.

Since his transplant, Scott has shown remarkable determination in returning to everyday life and sport. His recovery has involved balancing his health with school and the challenges of rebuilding his fitness following intensive treatment.

Scott is the only athlete from Waterford selected for this year’s Irish team, making his achievement particularly significant for his local community. He is also one of the youngest members of the squad.

His selection represents more than a sporting achievement. Scott’s story is one of resilience, determination and the life-changing impact of donation. His bone marrow transplant, made possible by a family member who stepped forward as his donor, gave him the chance to recover and ultimately return to the sport he loves.

Through his participation in the European Transplant Games, Scott will join athletes from across Europe who have faced their own health challenges and found a pathway back to sport.