In the hands of a transplanted athlete the Flame is not restricted to its Olympic character. It reminds us of the love and indebtedness toward the ill fellow-person. Just as solar light is trans-planted in the torch to guide great athletes to a victory, love and sensitivity expressed by organ donation, are transferring the flame of life through transplantation. It is the only way out of hemodialysis, giving a chance to recipients to return to a creative life. One fellow person loses the battle for life but another one returns to life through organ donation.

The pervious century was labeled as the most significant in the history of humanity in terms of scientific and technological achievements. One of the most important has been vital organ transplantation. It is undoubtedly a scientific miracle and all could take pride in it. But ORGAN DONATION is an indispensable condition for the advancement of transplantations. It entails all these elements that could make it a true OLYMPIC MESSAGE.

 

ORGAN DONATION:

A MODERN

OLYMPIC MESSAGE

N. Karantakos holding the Olympic Torch that brings life to the hope for transplantation

“After the completion of 10 years of a successful renal transplantation, (1994) and having previous experience of 16 years in dialysis, allow me to condense this double experience in few words, paraphrasing the utterance of Alexander the Great” :

"Hemodialysis ensures living,
Transplantation provides well being."

The Flame of Transplantation broadens one’s horizons so as to transcend oneself and demonstrate respect and love for the fellow person. At the same time it creates a feeling of endless gratitude to the recipient who feels bound to take initiatives that project the greatness of love, encouraging the donation of organs for transplantation.

We are all well aware of the severe challenging of the Olympic ideals in the era of globalization. Ideals that are cornered between vision and intentionality, degenerated by the scourges of commercialism and doping. The real meaning of the ancient Greek spirit is best expressed by the effort of the transplanted athletes to form an integrated itself physically and mentally. It is more than enough for them to be rewarded with the olive-tree wreath for their daily efforts toward a creative life.