From “Vacation in a Spaceship” to Kilimanjaro: Ana’s Story of Strength

At 57 years old, Ana is a mother, psychologist, hiker, athlete, and a proud bone marrow recipient whose life is a testament to resilience and determination.

Even during the most difficult days of her illness, Ana refused to give up her passion for sport. Competing with bruises, fatigue, dizziness, and even heavy bleeding, she still managed to achieve the extraordinary: becoming the European and World Masters Champion in triple jump outdoors (2014, 2016) in the Women’s 45–49 category. At the same time, she was blood transfusion dependent, earning her last World Championship medal just two months before her transplant.

Recognised as the Best Master Athlete in Croatia in 2013 and 2016, Ana carried that same spirit into the hospital sterile unit during her transplantation. There, she continued walking 2 km a day between her bed and bathroom, documenting her journey in a diary she titled “Vacation in a Spaceship.”

Just four months after transplant, despite complications, chronic GvHD, and later hip replacement surgery, Ana began training again. She hasn’t stopped since. From competing on the track to climbing Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Ana has shown how sport can heal, empower, and keep her strong.

Last year, she proudly competed as a transplant athlete for the first time at the European Transplant Sports Championships in Lisbon, and she is now preparing for the World Transplant Games in Dresden 2025.

💚 “I was born again thanks to my donor, many blood donors, doctors, nurses and all who helped me. I am so grateful, and I try to help others,” Ana shares.

Beyond sport, Ana has devoted the last ten years to volunteering with the Croatian Sports Recreation Transplant Association and the Croatian Leukemia and Lymphoma Association, offering psychological support and hope to fellow patients.

Ana’s journey reminds us that every step forward, whether on the track, up a mountain, or alongside someone in need, is a celebration of the Gift of Life.