Carlo Silvi -- Italy

Age: 49

Transplant: Kidney, 1991

Hometown: Chiaravalle (AN), Italy

Events: Athletics -- Shot putt, Ball Throw, Volleyball

Carlo's Story: Carlo Silvi, 49, received a kidney transplant July 23, 1991. He and his wife, Annarita, have two children,
Riccardo, 11, and Stefania, 10, pictured here. He worked as a technician for the Italian State Railway Company until 1993, and
now dedicates all his time to his family. He says, "When I was young, I was an active athlete, but I stopped competing when I
reached age 22. Before the kidney transplant, I used to exercise only occasionally and just for fun. After the transplant,
however, I even stopped doing that as I was so worried about damaging my new kidney. It wasn't until I attended a meeting
organized by A.N.E.D. (a national association for dialysis patients) that I once again entertained the idea of embarking on a
second athletic career. Thanks to their support and encouragement along with regular training, I came in first in the shot putt
event at the 1997 Italian Transplant Games. I also intend to be present at the XI World Transplant Games to be held in Sidney,
Australia. I am very pleased with what I've managed to achieve and, above all, with the renewed confidence I now have in my
physical capabilities."

My Message to the World:We must have confidence and pluck up courage because transplant means "to enjoy life again moment for moment." I hope my story can encourage all people to be donors.

 

Last modified: 11 May 2000