On BBC News on 22 August 2025, Emma Stanley tells the incredible story of Catherine Makin, a double lung transplant patient.
Catherine Makin, 42, a National Health Service (NHS) clerical worker from Great Harwood, Lancashire, has won 10 medals in swimming and table tennis at the British Transplant Games after receiving a double lung transplant in 2020. Formerly a nursery nurse, Catherine was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension and underwent life-saving surgery at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester.
Her recovery included nearly two years of isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic, but the transplant greatly improved her health, allowing her to breathe normally and enjoy everyday activities again.
Due to the risk of infection, she couldn’t return to her former job, so she began volunteering and later secured a clerical role at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital. Determined to make the most of her second chance at life, she began competing in the Transplant Games, winning multiple medals over four years.
For Catherine, the Games are about more than sport—they’re a celebration of life and a tribute to organ donors. “Every time I compete, I’m reminded of how grateful I am to be here,” she said.
Read more at this link on BBC News
Summary by Deger Kesimoglu, AfPH volunteer
