World Transplant Games'11

Wednesday 15th

Well here I am (above) and the ultimate photo to express five years since my double-lung transplant and perservance with my training. The build up to arriving early in Sweden was a night of no sleep and buzzing with nerves/all sorts of emotions...and like 'wow' it's really happening!
These are my first world games and it is really difficult to summarise all the feelings from the overall trip...but tears, smiles, laughter, happiness, nerves, new friends, more tears, hugs, love, support, energy, electric atmosphere......so read on and hear all about it.

Transplantation is not possible unless we get a prescious gift like from the gorgeous Tiarka Marie Hampton. I became friends with her mother, Sandra who I was in contact with prior to the games and I will talk more about Tiarka and Sandra later in my blog.



All was going good until arriving at the hotel, and they had my parents registered but not me until two days later!! It's a long story of mixed communication from hotel and travel company and errors made, but it got sorted in the end. I said unless you want me to sleep in the Reception....lol. Not the start I imagined and a little on-edge, tried to re-focus and enjoy the times ahead.

We all finally got to eat a meal about 9.30/10pm with Kaylee who also had arrived early and then bedtime it was. I have to say, that I never slept most nights (an on-going issue post transplant) but, after competing in my sports (from the competitions) I slept like a ton weight - Bliss.


Thursday 16th

Woohoooo!!! Excited for today as prior to coming to Sweden I posted on Facebook anyone arriving early and would like to meet to message me. So, here I was going to meet people from USA, South Africa, Canada, Sweden, Australia for the first time! I have been friends with lots people across the globe for many years and as UK has a selection process for the World Games I haven't been able to meet my friends until now. Lots of messages, texts and finalising plans and here we all are enjoying burgers at the Hard Rock Cafe (means to say salads and protein for us athletes ;)

On left side: Marie, me, Holly, Jen, Alice and Chris. On right side: Jenny, Kim, Sandra, Jas, Kaylee.




Friday 17th

Sweden welcomes:- Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Ghana, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Mexico, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States and Uruguay! Over 50 countries competing in this year's world games. With over 1,800 transplantee athletes.

Even though we all stayed across Gothenberg in different hotels, all lunch and evening meals were in one room. And here are all the nations in one room eating and a great way to make new friends whilst tucking into swedish food.




The games officially started the next day, but later this evening there was a UK party with a British theme. So...let's get the party started...woop woop woohoo!!




Here I am with friends Sandra (from Canada, who I stayed with on holiday there last year), and also Scotty and Luke two Australian hotties (I'm sure they won't object to that term).




The real winner tonight was Dino as Captain Britain - awesome outfit.....off off and away!!

It was a great evening and good to meet more of Team GB and celebrate our 1st night togther.

Saturday 18th

Today is the main day for the opening parade whereby all countries parade through the streets of Gothenburg, raising awareness that we are here thanks to our transplants! The weather started off blissfully sunny and I went round taking photos as you will see below. Just aswell, as then the heavens opened and it rained and rained...ponchos on, umbrellas up and lets get this parade started! I have been to opening parades before for both the UK & European Heart/Lung Transplant Games..but nothing prepared me for the scale of people/atmsophere for over 50 countries...wow!

Also a frenzy of exchanging pins happened to each other from various countries, and my denim jacket now is mostly of worldwide pins than a jacket. It was a great way also to get chatting to people and what a unique buzz. Amazing!!

Some of us UK athletes from left, Andy. Craig, Joe, Sarah and me.

The one and only chap from Tunisia.

The team manager from Sudan

I already knew some of the Norwegian team and other transplantees from Europe from last years European heart/lung games, so it was good to see these friends again.

Tadaa!! I really love this photo (below) as for me it really embodies the world games and meeting people from so many countries/cultures. This would never have happened without my transplant and training. So happy to be here and be alive :)

Woohooo!!

Guess you can see, that I was really getting into the vibe today - and even when the rain came down......smiles and cheers as we walked through Gothenburg. And a happy Maggie caught me taking a photo.

Then we all walked into a closed arena whereby each country grouped together and supporters (above arena). Music was played as we all entered in alphabetical order country by country. I couldnt help but dance my way through and cheer...WOW...electrifying and buzzing atmosphere.

Once everyone was in.....a stage show commenced of dance acts, speeches (quite emotional words) and a special band singing.......Captain Captain Captain of the ship.........urm.......this song will stay with me and some say when I do my sailing venture next year, I will be captain of the ship...lol, as if! Although, it was really wierd to watch, two long haired guitarists and an opera style singer with long blonde hair...with a young chorus of men/women in navy uniform - bizarre! Followed by a solo of the guitarist saying a 'short piece' that went on for ages!! After his emotional start and somewhat lovemaking to his guitar...it was actually truly amazing.

If you would like to hear the tune I found this link on You Tube......

Captain of the Ship You Tube video

Sunday 19th

Today was badminton training and I'm glad I went to practice and check the venue - as after 2 hills and 2 steep staircases to get there..I nearly never made it! I was actually outa puff doing this and became quite breathless...not a good start. Eventually, I was informed that when I compete a taxi would be available for me and a few others with other issues doing this challenging trek. And, I was sooooo relieved to hear this and very grateful...phew...

After 2 hours being there and getting some practice in - I was well and truly shattered. I also had the best night sleep since arriving. I tend only to sleep when I'm completely exhausted...oh well...more exercise for me then ;)

The evenings found me crashing early about 10-10.30 pm so felt fresh and re-vitalised ready to compete. I intended to save a 'late' night until all my sporting events were over as I am a party girl at heart. Most of the socialising was actually where I staying along with the rest of Team GB. Here I am with Tashi from Bhutang (far right) and then a chap from Nepal (with hat) and another athlete from Iran.

Monday 20th

Here it is.....competition day!! Eek!!! It seemed ages away from when first recieved my letter of selection months and months to wait, and now here I am about to start my 1st event, that of Squash. Feeling slightly nervous and apprenhensive and a long coach ride to get to venue.
Time to get my Grrrrrr on......well actually I wouldn't hurt a fly but wanted to get psyched up!

And here I am with my parents - love you :)

I tell ya, I played many games and the ones played with Claire nearly saw the end of me. Truly exhausted, breathless, and neither of us scoring any points for ages. Was a case of 0-0 and we both looked at each other and I'm sure I can vouch for Claire...we were both like....oh boy this is guna be a longggggggggggggg game!!! And it was!! Smiling at the end of the match...but it was a close call for ages, but Clare nipped me to that silver......well done Claire

And to proove squash was exhausting, here I am with another competitor, Irene (from Australia) semi -passed out on the floor..I went down, and Irene shortly joined me..lol. But, trust my Dad to capture the moment ;)

Actually, you may recall me saying at the start of my blog about, tears.....well I had a tear session after playing with Irene. I was so frustrated about getting breathless and even though I don't have full lung function I know I do all the sports that are the hardest on me (insane I know, but I enjoy them). I guess my tears were due to the fact, that I know if I had more puff I could give it more and do better. I sat on the floor trying to be discreet and no chance..lol.

Red blubber face..I gathered myself together and washed my eyes ready for next match. Game on!

Woohoo all Team GB squash champions.

Gold, Silver, and Bronze squash champs as above.

Tuesday 21st

Today is the day for badminton mixed double and ladies doubles....many games....many competitors...many countries.

Oh but before I go on with the badminton, this photo (below) is from a lady Michelle who contacted me via Twitter asking if I would like to be filmed for a documentary on Organ Donation (in USA). Michelle had no problem locating me in the 'meal' room with my red hair and shortly after introductions I was being filmed.

Back to badminton again.....and here I am all happy smiles with Ian my mixed badminton partner.

The Swiss ladies gave us a good game as below with Jill as my ladies doubles partner in badminton.

Jill and I actually won bronze after competing with many various teams. Bronze a bling bling..then it was taken away..as not enough medals (however, 2 days later we got the medals)..u tease Gothenberg!!

I played some games with ladies from Iran (not pictured in this photo below). I initally sat on my own on a bench and suddenly found myself surrounded by a group of Iranians. Only one of the girls, Maryam spoke good English and she was telling me that they all were kidney transplantees except for one who is a liver transplantee. And that heart/lungs need to be done in another country. They were very sweet to me and tried to speak some English, and they also taught me some Iranian. I think they were impressed as I was able to repeat what they said quite well :)

Walking the green mile to get the bronze ;)

The badminton champs :)

This trophy was made and has everyone's names, including supporters and my Dad had just seen his and Mum's! Fab!

Wednesday 22nd

Well this is it, last day of events that being the 100m sprint! I have to be honest I really needed a day to rest, and was quite exhausted from squash and badminton the days before. I was still focused however and had the thinking of Grrrrr again...lol

At the track here (with Kaylee, Laura and Craig), before I was told to get into the sprint lanes ready for my heat in the 100m. If I made a qualifying time with the best of 2 heats - I would make the finals, gulp. Fingers crossed.

SOOoooooo, on your marks, get set. GO!!!!!!! See me in the red (3rd from left) really going for it with all my puff.

I couldn't believe it that I actually made the finals and here I am in 1st lane (far right) giving it more puff. But, I actually sprinted slower - due to exhaustion and lungs getting the better of me now :(

But, it was still an achievement to make the finals and in my heat I sprinted just under 18 seconds (quicker than last year) so a PB (personal best) and proud with that. In my training, prior to the games I managed to actually do the 100m in 17.4 seconds. Shame, I wasn't able to repeat that.

Here I am with Scotty, Glen, Sandra and Irene (all from Australia). The games also welcome donor families and living donors (who donated their own organs) to come along. As I mentioned earlier in my blog I have been in contact with Sandra prior to Sweden (wearing white top in photo) as a donor family. I have been touched by Sandra's story whose daughter died in a car crash and she consented for her organs to be used to save other people's lives. Sandra is a great support to those also recieving the gift of life and a real party spirit to all she meets.

I asked Sandra if she could kindly mention some words about her experience/what happened as below....

"Tiarka Marie Hampton was 7 weeks off turning 20 years old, when returning home after a work function in Perth they were involved in a 5 car pile up at 5.30 pm 5th September 2004 (Fathersday) in Australia.... Tiarka was a beautiful fun loving enjoyed life to the fullest. love sports of all kinds, socializing as young people do. after being airlifted to hospital, where I was informed that she had Brain injuries & might not come out of it. I though she was strong & if there was a chance she would come home to me & her father Peter & brothers. Kyle now 25 & Jarryd now 23. But when I first looked at her with all the injuries she received broken bones not many weren't there wasn't a mark on her face, I knew then that she wasn't coming home. with all her family & friends around we got to the donating of Organs which I had alread said to the dr about but now everyone was there & 24 or so hours later after all rest had been done. we were told what was going to happen, signed all the forms ect. So on the late evening of September 7th we gave the '"GIFT OF LIFE " to 4 people. A Man mid -late 50's from Western Australia received her HEART. A Ladymid -late 50's from Western Australia received her LIVER & a man & Lady mid - late 50's received her KIDNEYS which went over to the Eastern States of Australia. I havent had the chance to meet any of her tx but after becoming involved with Transplant Australia & attending the national & World games I do beleive it was the right thing to do. I am now involved with Transplant Australia as Donor Family Delegate & Transplant Tx Rep for the country area of Western Australia."

I am truly touched by this and the donor families are a big part of our journey...much respect to you Sandra and all other families that consent to organ donation after loosing loved ones and to living donors.

Thanks Dad for capturing this piccie with me and the trophy - beaming with my 2 bronze medals from my 1st world games!!

All my events were now over and early nights every night.....but, tonight, I thought I AM going out and will have a blast even though was still shattered.


Thursday 23rd

Can you believe it - the last day...ohhhhhhhhh!! It seemed like forever for me to compete, and now it's all over except for one more day of athletics and the final gala party to say goodbye to everyone (and party hard)!! But, we needed capture Team GB before we all party :)

And once done.........hear about this, not only is it fun to exchange different country pins at the start of the games (and during) to get talking to new people across the globe. BUT..to also exchange kit. I was informed of this and thought quite bizarre and told how difficult it is to get any team kit from the Australian athletes. Secretly that was a personal mission of mine to achieve ;) Jussie on a mission.....

Most of the exchanging of kit is done on the last day at the track, like a manic market! People coming along showing their kit and trying to barter with each other. A man from Uraguay trying to exchange his team jacket..then more people trying to haggle clothing. What a buzz! I knew what I wanted a team USA top, South African top, something from a Far Eastern countries and anything from Australia!

So with that in mind...I ended up with a USA team top+tracksuit bottoms; a Hong Kong jacket+tracksuit bottoms; Iranian T-shirt; South African team top; Australian jacket/team top and Aussie hat (Crocodile Dundee style). I needed another suitcase for all this wardrobe attire! I only exchanged my jacket and 2 polo tops that came with the team kit, my squash top then my Union Jack handbag & sunglasses; red t-shirt (saying 'Go Jussie'). I also had a "I'd give you One" (re: organ donation) and gave this away to a young South African girl who also had a transplant. I became friends with her mother earlier in the week and knew it was her Birthday too, so was happy to give that and some British 'Lovehearts' sweets.

I had quite a few laughs with Robyn from South Africa as she was after a top I had (now she is wearing in the photo below). I did want the South African top - but also wanted to see if there was any other clothing I could acquire ..... But, Robyn was not going to let me go and said would change infront of people in the lunch tent to get my top! Low and behold Robyn attempted to take her top off and put mine on (I was wearing my own clothes...so didn't need strip).

And here Robyn is getting a helping hand removing her top.......I laughed so much!!

The lovely Irene that I shared a room with also at the track on the last day :)

One Union Jack handbag for a full Hong Kong team kit (and I also gave her my red Jussie T-shirt). Happy days, good bargaining. Oh, I made sure all swaps I did were of clothing that fitted me, as I will wear the kit back home. The only thing I didn't get was a bandana from Japan...so if anyone has got and doesn't mind sending to me please....woohoo!! Holla, as I would be so happy to get one of those!! xx

Hanging out with the chaps from Bhutang and Nepal again.

Lynne (the Team Manager for Team GB) and I with some of the lovely South Africans.

After the closing ceremony.....the night was only just starting and I hung out with some girls from USA, then went to a Swedish bar/club whereby loads more people joined us later from various countries. Really time to let my hair down and dance the night away. I didn't want to leave as was having so much fun and totally loving the music. I knew I had an early flight the next day...so about 3am thought best leave and be ready for my start at 7am!
Here are the last few party shots in the club....woohoo!!!!

And thats a wrap folks. Happy memories...simply breathtaking and an experience I will never forget. Also, that was my last sprinting and perhaps squash too (for the games - due to my breathlessness). However, I am going to take up new sports for next year's British Games:- discus, javelin and shot put and still keep with my badminton (that are gentler on my lovely lungs).

Time to return home to the UK, rest up and get ready for 2 weeks worth of my final sailing training for the Clipper 11-12 Race (but my leg at sea, being next year).

Much love as always xx

Redddddy 1-13

Hey up everyone, it's me...last blog before I depart for Gothenburg in Sweden next week and I decided to have a quick, fun, 1-13 points on my thoughts/feelings/other re: my first ever World Transplant Games.


So...are you ready? Here we go ..Oh and if no particular order.........

1) Nervous - eek!

2) Super excited - woo!

3) Proud to be part of Team GB

4) Competing in 100m sprint, squash, badminton mixed+ladies doubles

5) Can't wait to meet other transplantees from across the world - especially those who have been speaking with for years (or recently) via the internet/social nerworking sites

6) Packing..Ahhhhhh....check lists/post-tick notes everywhere!!

7) Happy parents coming too to support me :)

8) Hope to win medal (s) or even GOLD!?

9) But, realise even if I don't - still humbled to have been selected & will do my extreme best when in Sweden. Also......I am already a WINNER - as alive

10) What sport means the most to me? My 100m sprint!! I did achieve Gold in the 100m sprint in the UK Transplant Games in 2010 after trying for 4 years to run faster than the kidney girls! A friend, Fran helped me with my training for couple years, then sadly got a new job and wasn't able to continue. My sprint training came to a standstill and I was gutted that I wouldn't be able to find a new sprint coach, and may have to drop the 100m. In the 11th hour and just 5months before these World Games...a sprint coach called, Brian MacKenzie has been fantastic in helping me with technique/training. It's not just about run and go...lol. Also, sprinting is really hard on my lungs and even that short burst makes me breathless for quite some time to regain 'normal' breathing again. Hence, why if I do well at the World Games standard I will be over the moon (also I guess in my other sports of course too). Even, if I get just a PB (personal best) and sprint faster than last year.

11) A BIG shout out to all of you who send me emails,messages on social sites,texts,calls etc and also from friends/family for constantly supporting me. LOVE u all for this very much. It means a lot to me and I appreciate it always!! xx

12) My donor made this possible for me - seriously if you aren't a donor yet...please...you know what I'm guna say...so just do it :)

13) Finally, just to also thank the many people who have nominated me to be an Olympic Torch carrier for the Olympic Games 2012. There are many wonderful and inspiring people from all walks of life and various ages. Whoever the lucky 100 people are - will be well deserved and do the UK very proud. I also know some other of my transplant friends have been nominated too, and I would love to think that at least one transplantee can carry the torch and raise awareness (if not me) and keep Organ Donation in people's minds.

Ok waffle over

Much love as always and whatever happens in Sweden........will be the BEST experience ever I'm sure!

Chow 4 now xx

Team GB Go Go! and Bree

Transplantion is a gift, an extension on life. It is not a cure and complications/side effects from medications can occur. My life is one with a positive attitude through days which maybe harder than others. I live my life and love every day I wake up and still alive. Sometimes, my breathing may be an issue - but I keep going and get on with it! I do what I can and as best as I can.
Sadly, along the way friends loose their battle post transplant with either rejection or further complications after catching a virus for example. We know on the onset these things may happen as immuno-suppressed, but, as I've always said and those who know me well now. I believe I will be the longest living 'blue-rinse' granny double-lung transplantee ;)

So, this brings me onto the gorgeous Bree as in this photo. Bree and I were internet friends for many years through our illnesses, then I got my transplant. Bree kept wishing she would too and I promised her she would get her lungs and on 07/08/09 she did! :)

I travelled to Canada last October (where Bree lives) and made sure we met whilst there. Our silly, giggly times were real and not just online chat or Facebook messages. It was lovely to meet Bree finally and have an awesome inspiring time together. Now Bree has now gone to be with the angels, just under 2 years since her 'gift' due to a viral neurological infection which took her sight and now recently her life. Very sad indeed......

However....please still be inspired for as tragic as this is - transplantation is still a wonderful thing, as gives people like Bree and I extra time on life, that without, I simply wouldn't be typing now to you all. Also, why I continue to raise awareness on the importance of Organ Donation - as seriously you don't need your organs when your body is at rest. And registering online takes a few minutes and goes on to save the future of others - like it did mine. To register click here Register Thank you xx


There are also some people who live for many many years post transplant - there is no rule - no A-Z guidebook, and everyone is different. I would like to mention some friends in this blog who are also part of Team GB and achieving well post their transplants (further down into my write up)




Here we all are as, Team GB going to the World Transplant Games 17th-24th June 2011 in Gothenburg, Sweden for the 18th World Transplant Games. Can you spot me in the photo ;)

"The Summer World Transplant Games take place every two years where over 1500 athletes representing some 69 countries compete at an extraordinarily high level. Many however just come to enjoy taking part at their own pace and welcome the opportunity to meet with other transplant recipients in an atmosphere of fun and friendship" (taken from the WTGF website)
The World Transplant Games Federation is officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee.








On Sunday 22nd May, there was our last Team GB meeting and an early alarm wake up 5.15am was set. My friend, Jason would be collecting me at 6am for a 2.5 hour drive to get to the destination for more training too. Here I am ready for badminton. My events run over 3 consecutive days in Sweden and no doubt I will be shattered after. Just will be needing some R&R (rest & relaxation after). Nevermind, the fact soon after I get home, I have 2 final sailing courses for my Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race. And, I will miss the British Transplant Games this year, shortly after the sailing courses finish....as I need say 'NO' and give my body a chance to chill :)


Me saying 'No' to something is unheard of, but, I am trying to learn to say this and have time for me and my precious lungs x


After some hours of playing badminton, we had the last meeting and learnt that 130 transplant athletes were part of Team GB (including the junior athletes) representing our Country in a variety of sports ranging from:- Badminton, Bowling, Cycling, Golf, Road Race, Squash, Swimming, Track & Field, Table Tennis, Tennis and Volleyball and so on!

Quick lunch pit stop, then team photo in our Team GB outside in the sun, and ding dong!! Round 2 of more training. Time for some Squash tips from the reigning champ, Ami. I have to admit I was exhausted and knew I wouldn't be able to do much but mustered on for maybe another 30mins or so until I knew I had to stop.

Shower and then homeward bound and for the countdown to commence until we are in Sweden....





OOps how did this get here, a sneaky peek at me at my local sports track ;)
















Ok here are some other athletes from left to right:- Jade, Lisa, Kaylee, Me, and Emma.
Now carry on reading and be inspired :)









Jade
Transplant type: Heart
Years Post Transplant: 14 years
Reason for Transplant: born with dilated cardiomyopathy
Sports entering in World Games: badminton singles & mixed, 100m sprint, ball throw, long jump and 4 x 100 relay race.

Lisa
Transplant type: Double Lungs & Heart
Years Post Transplant: 18 years
Reason for Transplant: Cystic Fibrosis
Sports entering: Badminton & Tennis

Kaylee
Transplant Type: Heart
Years Post Transplant: 24 years
Reason for Transplant: Cardiomyopathy
Sports entering: 100, 200m sprint, Badminton singles, 10 Pin Bowling & Long Jump
Kaylee had her transplant at just 5months old, and is the longest surviving heart recipient in the UK!

Justine (me)
Transplant type: Double-Lungs
Years Post Transplant: 5 years this July!
Reason for Transplant: Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)
Sports entering: 100m sprint, Badminton mixed doubles & Badminton ladies doubles & Squash

Emma
Transplant type: Heart
Years Post Transplant: 9 years
Reason for Transplant: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Sports entering: 100m, 200m, 50m freestyle swim, long jump & maybe relay race






More athletes Andy on left and Kez on the right.

Andy

Transplant Type: Heart

Years Post Transplant: 4.5 years
Reason for Transplant: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Sports entering: Long jump, High Jump, Squash & 10 Pin Bowling

Some red head -but you already know about her ;)

Kez

Transplant Type: Heart

Years Post Transplant: 3 years

Reason for Transplant: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Sports entering: Discus, Shot-Put, Javelin & 10 Pin Bowling

I also asked my friends if there was anything like they would like to add and it basically mirrors all I live for, and that their donor is very much loved and we are grateful to these donors. We are all proud to be part of Team GB and happy for support from family, friends and all of you's!!

Onto some good news, after returning home today, I recieved a letter saying that I have been selected to be a Sports Ambassador in my Borough and to make 'Personal Appearances' within this role. I feel very honoured and humbled and hope to inspire others with illnesses, disabilities, and awaiting transplants.

So there we go... R.I.P my dear friend Bree and let us all continue to grow strong, be inspired, be positive and treat every day as a truly beautiful thing. Do not take life for granted - and do something good today - tell people about the 'Gift of Life'

Thanks and happy smiles to each of you, and for the continuous support you give me xx

Crew Allocation Day

Today's headlines as follows in photo below........

WOOHOOOooooooo!!!!

This is it! The day we get to find out our crew, skipper, yacht, and let the fun begin! I arrived the night before and met up with various people met so far from level 1, 2 and 3 theory for a yummy meal in Ocean Village.

Do you recognise any of these faces? Are they in your team? Adrian, Cath and crazy moi in middle (top photo) and Sarah, Shona, Paddy, Lesley, Catherine, Chris and then me (bottom photo)

Morning Saturday 30th April...wakey wakey Clipper dudes and dudettes......this is the view greeting us all, paparrazi and more face shot photos required for the Clipper 11-12 website.

Still time to relax before the main meeting and have a coffee with Wendy, Ollie and Wend

352 participants in this room - more people than any of the other years attending a crew allocation day and still not all the people taking part in the race! A 10am punctual start and time to learn more news about the race and hear words of advice from Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. The start of the race is July 31st and will be from somewhere in the Solent - still to be confirmed exactely where. Then to meet the skippers and for them to read the names of who are in their teams. Woo!! I am with a skipper named, Gordon Reid on yacht CV1. With a crew of 49 people doing 1 or more leg (s) of the race and with 8 of those doing the complete race!!! Brave souls indeedy.

I also learnt more about the leg that I'm doing and will be away for about 2 months approx in total (including time at ports) from end May to June & July 2012. I will no doubt miss the European Heart & Lung Transplant Games which normally fall about this time over the Summer - which was a commitment I was prepared to take. The games are in Holland, and ironically - I will be sailing there....I wonder if the dates will be when the actual games take place, then I could say hello to all my friends across Europe/UK too and maybe enter a 100m sprint ;)

And here are some of as Transplant Ambassadors:- Nick, Steve, me, John, TT and Darius ranging from transplant surgeons, transplant co-ordinator and transplant recipients.
I think the word is getting out and about us, and of the 500 people taking part in the Round the World Yacht race, there is a minority of us - seeking to raise awareness of Organ Donation (about 10 within this group) and about half of those actual transplant recipients. But, me being the only double-lungs. Bit surreal for me still, breathing with someone else's lungs, but hope my donor is proud of me.


Once we were informed of our skipper/team, we were all grouped together to hear from Gordon (skipper) about his background, crew roles, pre-race schedule, working out a boat song, boat dynamics and rules, and much much more.
After the meeting at the luxurious De Vere Hotel in Southampton, coaches were taken to Ocean Village to have group photos of our team/skipper - then an overall photo of everyone with some of the yachts there. ELECTRIC - was the atmosphere...cheering...clapping..so many smiles...and the banter had already started.......

Here I am with Callum, TT and Nick as part of CV1 waiting for a coach.








Onlookers had come to support us all - and probably thinking hundreds of crazy people about to embark on sailing around the world, I wish I had the bottle to do that - brave individuals.

And lovely to see Sir Robin Knox-Johnston overlooking on the balcony supporting the new bunch of Clipper 11-12 crew. If he can do it - then so can we!!

And here is the Skipper, Gordon - and 2 crew members on our 'Winning' Team to be!!!

A mass of red coats, buzzing ambience and chants - but, don't worry you other teams. CV1 is proud to already announce that the trophy have our name engraved....we just got wait a whole year to get it!!

Oh and before I sign out to yet another entry....a big shout out to those (who WILL know who they are) who said have read my blogs but never commented or tick 'like' on the Facebook Clipper 11-12 Group. But.....in a space of almost 5 minutes about 4 people said to me...."Oh...your the lung chick...I've seen your photos....I recognise you from your red hair...I know about you"...it did make me smile and chuckle. I'm pleased to know that even though sometimes people may never say anything...that secretly my blog is read. But...you can tick 'like' or comment or request to add me ;)

I still have level 3 practical to do and level 4 - both back to back in July. But, for now as some of you are aware...I'm competing in my 1st ever World Transplant Games in Sweden next month and need keep training for that - eek.

Okies....time for me to say goodbye for now. Loved the weekend, it totally rocked! And fantastic to meet so many new people. Bring it ON!!!

Happy smiles and much love for now

CV1 champions
OVER xx

Day Skipper

Aye Aye Captain

Its official......when you have the Clipper 11-12 jacket, as demonstrated by a certain red-head in the photo below ;)






Well...so the Clipper story continues, and this time away from the sea - dry land ahead!! A five day theory based course with 2 exams on the last day. To learn all about the roles of a Day Skipper such as :- safety, chartwork, tides-tidal streams-ocean currents, meteorology, visual aids to navigation, international rules for preventing collisions at sea and much much more!



It sounds easy...but certainly was not!




The day began at 9am and finished about 6pm, time for dinner - do a work out (well, that was my intention to keep up my training for the World Transplant Games in July), then do the homework set and revise! Phew

Here, I am looking all studious and smiley on different days....but the real 'me' was actually a stressed, panicky, fear of not being able to pick up all the information crammed in - in what felt like an extremely intense course. There were various levels of intelligence...hahaha..and mind being least so - just not getting all this chart work marlarky. Like another language and no amount of teaching was going to get through to me. I really wanted to socialise with the rest of the group, but felt I needed to re - read all we were taught after each lesson and keep reading my navigation book and the day skipper book given on the course. Also from going over anything I just didnt understand and keep re-doing until I did. Our teacher was very kind, and I expressed to him how I was struggling and couldnt figure out some of the answers and asked for extra help. I really wanted to do well and almost every night was up to about midnight. On the 4th day, exhausted would be an understatement. My brain was fried and I think I was going into overdrive. One night, I had dinner and my body was so tense - I just couldnt relax and unwind...and silly to say, but was close to tears a few times over this week. Well, I decided to socialise and go out for dinner with the group the night before the exams, and was the best thing I could have done! Change of scenery from being in a classroom or in my room revising and charts all over the floor and books everywhere in a small space. Giggles, yummy foods and fresh air - all helped to ease the little stress head I had made myself become with panic over the intensity of learning a new subject.

However...I did still stay up and revise to midnight, the night before the exams - then absolutely flake out!!

I did try to train one day during the week - along the seafront and go for a run. I was out for maybe 30 mins in the heat and trying to run on the pebbled beach. It was very tough, but, good to get some sea air. Have you ever tried running on pebbles?? I think I started then quickly stopped after like a minute - outa breathe and kicking stones - not ideal..hahaha. I am NOT a runner by no means and can't run continuous anyways due to my lung function. It reminded me of the Bupa Great South Run I did in 2009 - running a few mins, walking a few mins and repeating the whole distance ....but I did do it :)

I felt bad not exercising much as normally I would try do so 5 x week in my various disciplines, and when you stop you loose some of what you have achieved to date. But...I just gave up of trying to train - I needed to get my mind set into this course and put the work in as much as was required for me - to pass!!




And here we have some of the lovelies also doing the Day Skipper course:- from left to right:- Barrie, Lesley, Richard, Pete, Tim & Patrick












The same crew - this time with Vanessa making an appearance. There was also another lady called, Lora - but somehow not in the pic (maybe because she was absorbed into a pint of guiness ;)






So, as I said I was a goody two shoes revising most nights until midnight and had the night before the exams out at a nice Tapas Restaurant. Oh....but, I forgot to mention (or maybe I didn't want to mention)...a homemade lasagna experience cooked by Sam - another chap in Clipper doing his Day Skipper Practical, with Wend (met from Level 1) and others on this course on their yacht one night. I am the Queen lasagna maker - FACT!! No one has ever made a lasagna as good as me - ever!! I enjoyed the banter and sat and ate thinking this is pretty good..even more so, being made with soya mince. Ok..so, Sam.....Lasagana WAR it is! And anyone else..think they can match me - bring it on! I still think I am the best....hahahahahaha.


One of the new yachts for the race - pretty kool - eh!.....and some red head yet again managed to be snap shot into the background. She creeps up everywhere .........

It was lovely also how the weather was stunning and hot and below I am trying on the Clipper 11-12 jacket - not knowing that Rich was actually taking piccies of me before I said to take a photo. But a natural photo - so thought worth posting :)







SOoooooooooooooooooooo...EXAM day! Well, I was at the point, what will be will be and nothing more I can do. I had spoken to my Dad and so very stressed and just thought I can only do my best now. Wend had told me, that you do get a 'Eureka' moment, when it all clicks. That hadn't happened to me at all during the week. Oh well.

Exam 1, general questions based and Exam 2 - the chartwork paper (eek).

Hallelujah.........Eureka...Woohoo moment has hit the Miss J Laymond on day 5 exam day, and things really DID all come together and make sense, and I found that I could do the chartwork even if a slow mo.

And I passed both exams - such a relief - I can't tell you! So a happy me and a happy everyone, as the whole group passed. So, we all had lunch sitting in the sunshine before my drive back, and the rest of the group going onto do their Level 3 practical.

And thats it...for now. About 6 weeks until I'm competing in Sweden with other transplantees and then in July 2 more practical sailing courses...then the race begins.

Stay happy everyone and much love for now...I will end on......

Day 'theory' Skipper Jussie happy happy

OVER

Clipper Level 2 Training

Woohooooooo!!! Ninja Jussie..Queen of the world ;)

Friday 25th Feb

Interesting start to the week ahead as I was coming out in a cold, and really didn't feel well at all. So, was dosing up on cold/flu capsules hoping for a miracle. Driving down to Gosport took forever as a 'Starbucks' pit-stop on the motorway tempted me in (and a cheeky slice of cake). Upon arrival, I still felt poorly and after a little rest, shower...decided just to go out for dinner then sleep. I met up with Nick (from Level 1) and also met Luke and Adrian other chaps part of the Clipper 11-12 and had a lush pub grub then back to the B&B.

Popped some more capsules along with my transplant meds and hoping to wake up feeling better the next day.

Saturday 26th Feb

Today was a course on Radar ...how to read, use the radar machine and so on. Quite technical, but made more sense doing - than actually reading the manual we are sent out before each level's training. I must admit though, each manual does seem like a foreign language and I panic...gulp. But, after doing level 1 and then re-reading the manual again, things did seem easier to understand. I knew that would be the case too - for the week's training on level 2.

So...course now over and time to make my claim for the sleeping quarters on the Clipper 68 foot yacht.....lower bunk past the galley. And an amazing carpet with sails to fall onto in the early hours. Check out the luxury...really back to basics - but you do get used to it - and sharing a floating hotel with up to 20 people. This time, I was sharing with 14 people in total (incl. Skipper, Scott and 1st mate, Flavio).

Also, thankfully my cold was drying out - phew :)

Its a small space to move about and walk all over sails on the floor...balance a must! But, once onboard the yacht you do get used to the living quarters.

I must admit I was quite suprised to learn that no 'watch' system would happen on this level - and that we would get a night's sleep. Level 2 was more technical to learn sailing procedures. Pleasantly quite happy to hear....not going to grumble ;)

Thumbs up all round.

Sunday 27th Feb

Today's sailing started with a hailstone fenzy followed by rain..I actually enjoyed the foul weather. However, I may not be saying that when in gale force winds.....waves crashing over the yacht in rough seas and feeling sick (hopefully not being so). Not sure if you can see the hailstones falling on the deck..?

I was on 'mother' duty today with Nick to cook all meals and refreshments throughout the day/night. Breakfast was bacon and scrambled eggs; lunch was cup-a-soups with rolls/butter; dinner a medley of sausages with mustard mash and onion gravy. And, if I do say so myself was totally yummy! If you can't cook - you soon learn how too. Luckily, I can and I can tell you - you get so hungry and eat so much fuel type foods. In the real world - I would never eat as much as we do onboard, but, it's amazing how energy is used throughout the day. Not like a day in the office - sitting at a desk!

And here is moi, the galley assistance demonstrating how to hold a loaf and bread and juggle onions.....onboard entertainment whilst prepping food for the crew. It's a thrill a minute, to create your own in-house humour cooking for the mass in a tiny space.

Here I am with Stefan and Callum chilling for a quick bit before time to tack. And craziness after the hail storm followed glorious sunshine!!? The evening was a pub end, infact, most nights ended with a pub ending. Lime and soda's did well from me. Although, I rarely drink...but failed on the last night to a lil glass wine..shhhhh....

Monday 28th Feb

Peace out baby!

A long day at sea today and full of drills.....tacks, man overboard, sails (yankee,staysail,mainsail) up/down..reefs in/out (main sail) and repeat repeat! I even had a go on the coffee grinder...geesh that was a shock...quite tough actually and I'm sure I will get some arm muscles like Arnie soon enough. At times, I found some things quite physically demanding on my lungs and know I don't have as much lung function as everyone else onboard. So, also working within my limitations too - but sheer determination to try as much as I can do. On some occassions I needed help (thanks) but otherwise felt like GRRrrrrrrrrr I can and will do it.

If I'm honest, I do get frustrated sometimes that my lungs are not like 100% - but I DO appreciate I am still here, still breathing, and do more than people who are perfectly well. And, it will be a case finding a 'role' suitable for me when part of my team. By the end of the week, that position came clear to me..where I would be better suited. Although, Obviously happy to help in other areas too - just good I'm starting to realise my own strengths/weaknesses doing the training.

Here we all all flaking the main sail...."Awooma Awooma...Away" thanks to Flavio's chant to help us get the main sail sorted.

Hard work today and tiring - but still loved it.



Ollie and I demonstrating red apples cores for the latest fruit at sea...how to look kool. NB: anyone tell me how I ate mine with just my eyes showing? Send answers on a postcard...

Glad when we got to moor in and have a shower. I haven't commented on the fast dry towel that everyone has. On level 1, I brought along a regular towel and this time thought would get a fancy quick dry towel. Hmmm....like drying yourself on wet cardboard......comes to mind.

Tuesday 1st March
I think I never wrote any notes in my journal for today...so brains gone sparko, so here is a photo instead for today. I really like this pic, as to me it captures a tranquil view at sea and why it is simply stunning being here and being part of the Clipper team.

Wednesday 2nd March

ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......wow! Slept like a baby! Exhaustion and physically demands onboard you can't not sleep as the body needs time to unwind. Infact, I sleep better on the yacht than I do at home! But, you should see me in the morning - puffy watery eyes - sunken like a pumkin ;)

A busy hard day at sea, more drills and some great emotions being at an angle of about 40-45 degrees..check out the photos below. We went from East Cowes to Yarmouth today, and guess where the evening took us!?

I really enjoy meeting new people on the training courses, and a great bond is formed and many laughs shared/stories......everybody has their own background why doing Clipper and no1 person is alike.

Things are now starting to make more sense now from Level 1 - and that makes me feel happy.

Scott at the helm and Phil as good as in the sea ;)

Thursday 3rd/Friday 4th March

Both today and Friday was learning about the spinnacle pole/sail up procedures. Quite an amazing thing - seeing a sail as large as a tennis court go up - truly spectacular!

Some dramas along the way.....having the sail go into the sea and then going below deck with a couple other people to take the sail down and fold back away.

Grabbing hold of a wet sail and seeing the whole yacht being swamped with a sail down below. ....geesh. Four of us took on the task to fold the sail back away. I wanted to do this, and was excited at first....then after minutes of constant rolling...my arms ached and the smile disappeared just a tad. And I looked to see how much was left to roll and it seemed like an endless mile..hahaha......like the never ending sail....but good to be part of this mission ;)

Also, a lot to learn and just when you think you have kinda got your head around the other procedures - then this enormous element is thrown in! yikes! Nevermind Man overboard...for me it was/is a case of Mind overboard..lol

Here is:- Phil, Ailsa, Wendy, Shona, and Ollie having a cuppa moment...

And that's almost a wrap...Friday more like a half day as still need deep clean the yacht which takes a few hours. Some grim jobs - but it needs to be done to keep hygiene/cleanliness at a high standard. Then all cleaned up and ready for another pub visit and a hefty pub meal...oh yes please - yum! Oh as to where I think I should be based (as mentioned earlier in my blog) is the snakepit, which I still need to master more. But, that role will be great for me and manageable once A+++ in executing all areas :)

Saturday 5th March

Last day today, based on shore, a Radio course - to which I got 19.5 out of 22 in the exam (like being at school) and now I have a radio licence on it's way........Clipper Clipper Clipper this is Jussie Jussie Jussie..Over.

Sad to say goodbye to everyone...like the same feeling I had after level 1 - but know that whether on my leg/see at ports...friends made for life.

And that's a wrap.......from Janine..Rebecca..Brenda...Doris..!!??? Confused....well wait for next blog installment and I reveal all my 'alter ego's'............apparently ;)

Happy smiles - out xx