For seven-year-old liver transplant recipient Anthony Schiller, the Australian Transplant Games are about much more than competing.
They are a chance to spend time with other kids who understand a part of his life that few others can – growing up after an organ transplant.
Anthony is taking part in his third Australian Transplant Games in Launceston this week and while the competition is a big part of the Games, some of Anthony’s favourite moments happen away from the sporting field.
He loves meeting other transplant kids, cheering on his teammates, making new friends and sharing experiences with children who have their own transplant stories.
For his mum, Louise, seeing Anthony build these friendships is one of the most special parts of the Games.
“Those first two years were a rollercoaster with lots of hospital visits and setbacks, but since then he’s been living life like a normal kid,” Louise said.
Anthony was diagnosed with biliary atresia, a rare and life-threatening liver condition, when he was just eight weeks old. He received a life-saving liver transplant in 2019.
After a difficult start, Anthony has grown into a happy and energetic seven-year-old who loves playing hockey, swimming, riding his bike and spending time with family and friends.
“Every day feels like an achievement,” Louise said.
The Transplant Games have given Anthony a community where he can simply be himself.
For Anthony, meeting other transplant kids means spending time with people who understand experiences such as hospital visits, medications, recovery and growing up after a transplant.
For his family, watching those friendships grow is a reminder that the transplant journey extends far beyond the hospital.
“The Games remind us just how much organ donation can change a family’s life. The Games celebrate not only the gift of life but everything that comes afterwards,” Louise said.
This week, Anthony is once again surrounded by his transplant community – competing, cheering, laughing and making memories with friends who share a unique connection.
