Cycling serves as a great way to enjoy the outdoors and maintain fitness. For Greg Wilkinson, it became a vital part of his journey back to an active lifestyle following a liver and kidney transplant. Since his surgeries, Wilkinson has participated in various events at the World Transplant Games and currently holds the title of the fastest double-transplant cyclist in his 70s globally. In a conversation with Afternoon Drive host Matt Allen, Wilkinson discussed the significant role that cycling has played in his life.
Allen inquired about Wilkinson’s introduction to cycling, to which he shared that his involvement stemmed from being diagnosed with polycystic kidney and liver disease in the 1980s when he was in his 20s. After living with the disease for around 35 years, he eventually required a transplant. Attending the World Transplant Games in London in 2005, held near his residence, proved to be a pivotal moment for Wilkinson. Witnessing transplant recipients, including elite athletes, competing in cycling races inspired him and gave him hope for the future.
Regarding his participation in the games, Wilkinson explained that the primary objectives were to encourage post-transplant individuals to engage in physical activity, offer inspiration to those awaiting transplants, and boost organ donor registrations in the host locations. He detailed the cycling events he competes in, such as the time trial where riders start individually to race against the clock, and the road race, a 30-kilometer mass start competition.
When Allen mentioned Wilkinson’s status as the fastest double-transplant septuagenarian globally, Wilkinson clarified that he competes in the 70 to 80 age group and is indeed one of the fastest in that category. Reflecting on his recovery journey, Wilkinson expressed immense joy in regaining his strength and returning to cycling. He recounted a challenging climb in Italy and Austria that brought him to tears, realizing the remarkable progress he had made since his darkest days.
Wilkinson emphasized the gratitude he feels for the additional years of life he has enjoyed post-transplant, attributing it to the selflessness of organ donors and their families’ consent. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of sport and the impact of organ donation on individuals’ lives.