Recently, the World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF) conducted a vote among its members on whether to allow autologous bone marrow recipients to participate in future World Transplant Games. The outcome was 65% in favour, enabling this group to join future events.

In line with this decision, the eligibility wording will be changed to the following:
“Entry is open to all recipients of life-supporting allografts (heart, intestine, kidney, liver, lung, pancreas) from other individuals, and hematopoietic cell (bone marrow) transplants, which may require or have required the use of immunosuppressive drug therapies. Bone Marrow transplants include both allogenic (from other individuals or species) and autologous (from the same individual) transplants.”

We understand that this decision has sparked various reactions within our community, including concerns about fairness, inclusivity, and communication. The vote was democratic, with 65% voting in favour and 35% voting against. To address these concerns, we want to clarify the process that led to this decision and provide further context.

1. Governance and Membership Involvement: During the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on July 15th, the WTGF Board addressed several key issues under discussion for several years. One of the topics was the inclusion of autologous bone marrow transplants in the Games.

At the AGM, it was announced that a comprehensive communication would be sent to all members. This communication was to outline the background of the issue, including inputs from medical experts, and discuss the broader implications of these changes. We informed our member organisations that they would be asked to vote on this matter, to ensure a democratic decision which represents the views of the transplant community.

2. Voting Outcome: Following the AGM, WTGF member organisations were invited to vote on this matter. On September 30th, detailed documentation was sent to all member organizations, encouraging them to consult their communities and submit votes by October 31st. The final vote resulted in 65% in favour of including autologous bone marrow recipients in future Games and 35% against. This outcome reflects the collective democratic voice of our global membership. It is important to note that even within the WTGF Board of Trustees, there are differing opinions. The outcome needed to present the majority voice of the entire transplant community.

3. Medical Context: The WTGF consulted with medical professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by autologous bone marrow recipients. These patients undergo high-dose chemotherapy, endure years of illness, and face extended periods of isolation – circumstances that highlight their remarkable resilience. To prepare for a successful autograft, the patient’s existing bone marrow must be completely destroyed, which is a high-risk and intimidating process. This procedure carries a substantial risk of serious infections and other complications, making it equally as gruelling as many organ transplants. The chemotherapy not only eradicates their diseased bone marrow but also strips away their immune identity to make way for the “new” bone marrow. Including these patients
aligns with the Games’ mission to celebrate recovery, determination, and resilience across diverse transplant journeys. It underscores the extraordinary courage required to endure such a transformative and challenging medical process.

4. Fairness and Inclusivity: We acknowledge the diversity of experiences within the transplant community, from solid organ and tissue transplants to bone marrow transplants. The Games are a platform to celebrate these varied journeys rather than compare them. Furthermore, research indicates that athletic performance is shaped by training, preparation, and effort rather than the type of transplant received.

5. WTGF core mission and values: This decision aligns with the objectives of the WTGF to promote amateur sport by encouraging participation among recipients of organ, tissue, and cell transplants. It aims to improve health through studies focused on enhancing the well-being of these recipients and to educate the public about the benefits of organ, tissue, and cell transplants.

6. Commitment to Transparency: This decision followed a clear process involving the AGM, communication, and voting. The WTGF is a Federation of member organisations, and as such answerable at organisational level. The WTGF does not, however, get involved with how our member organisations engage with their members.

We deeply value the passion and commitment of our community and acknowledge that this decision has sparked differing views. We remain committed to fostering unity, respect, and understanding as we continue to grow as a community. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please contact WTGF at wtgf@wtgf.org

Together, we can ensure the Games reflect the resilience, strength, and shared mission of the transplant community.

In the meantime, please consult the list of FAQs for further clarification on shared misinformation. We ask that you always clarify mis-information with the WTGF before sharing incorrect facts on online platforms.

Yours in transplant sport
WTGF Board of Trustees

Contact: wtgf@wtgf.org

Read the full article and more information about Autologous Bone Marrow Eligibility FAQs here.