Running with Purpose: Rita Completes Her First 12km Race

Living kidney donor Rita Weisbecker has achieved an inspiring personal milestone, completing her first organised 12km race at the 16th Traunstein Half Marathon in Germany on 3 May 2026.

For Rita, the challenge represented far more than crossing a finish line. After donating a kidney to her daughter in April 2022, she took on the race to celebrate the life-changing power of living organ donation and help raise awareness within her local community.

Her journey began months before race day, with dedicated training starting in October. Through commitment, determination and consistent preparation, Rita not only completed the 12km course but exceeded her personal goal by one minute, crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 1 hour, 14 minutes and 6 seconds.

The event welcomed a record 850 participants across the half marathon and 12km races, with warm spring weather creating an uplifting atmosphere for athletes and supporters.

Reflecting on the achievement, Rita shared:

“I am very happy and proud that I managed it.”

Rita’s accomplishment is a powerful example of what living donors can achieve and a reminder of the extraordinary generosity at the heart of transplantation.

Congratulations, Rita, on an inspiring achievement—and thank you for continuing to raise awareness of living donation, one meaningful step at a time.