Galway grandmother on podium at the World Transplant Games

A Galway grandmother hit the bullseye a long way from home this week – to secure a silver medal at the World Transplant Games in Perth.

Kidney transplant recipient Teresa Smyth was thrilled with her darts success, staring the podium with Australian heart transplant recipient Merrell Carter who won gold and Hong Kong’s Yeun Wah Ip who was beaten by Teresa in a play-off.

The 67-year-old grandmother from Williamstown was supported by her daughter Rachel, who lives in Perth and is due to give birth to her second child in three weeks.

Teresa, who had her successful kidney transplant in 2001, will stay on in Perth after the World Transplant Games to be with Rachel and her soon to be born baby.

“Brilliant, just brilliant!” was her immediate reaction. “It’s great, I didn’t expect it, but I’m delighted.”

Teresa’s friend Kathleen and her goddaughter Aoife were also there to cheer her on.

Her medal brings the tally won by Transplant Team Ireland to two gold and four silver so far at the Games which continue until this Friday, with golf and athletics events for members of the 14-strong Irish team still to compete in.

Those inspired to become organ donors can do so by visiting the IKA website or by phoning the Irish Kidney Association on 01 6205306 or Free text the word DONOR to 50050.

(Photo: Teresa Smyth with her expectant daughter Rachel after Teresa won her SIlver medal at the WTG Perth).