Heidrich (Saginaw) have much in common. The 2002 US. Transplant Games are the first for both ladies.
Patty received a kidney from her sister in August, 1994, while Lisa was transplanted in June, 2002
also with a kidney donated from her sister. The surgeries were performed at the University of
Michigan Health System.
Though on a dialysis machine, Lisa remained active, especially with racquetball and aerobics right
up until the time of her transplant. She did not realize how good she would feel once she received
a new kidney. Transplant gave her a freedom from attachment to the "machine" as well as to allow
her to go where and when she wanted to go.
A non-athlete prior to her transplant, Patty Braun began training in March for the 5K run/walk.
Accompanied by her donor, sister Margaret, she finished the race in fine fashion. She also volunteered
to help out at the Kids Time throughout the Games. Patty loves the Games and the opportunity they
provide to get together. The gathering at the Games allows transplant recipients to recognize that
they are not alone out there. For Patty, listening to all the stories, seeing all the athletes, and
hearing and seeing all that can be done after transplant is what makes the games great.
A Gold Medal winner in recquetball and a Bronze Medal winner in the 5K run, Lisa Heidrich feels
that she and all others need to be more vocal as advocates of organ donation. Patty Braun says to
"learn all you can about transplantation" and to "donate your organs--don't bury them".
