North West kidney recipient takes bronze at international games
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From Jouberton, Moabeng was one of 46 South Africans who recently represented the country at the international sporting event held in Argentina. He won a bronze medal in the 5 km power walk event.
The South African team placed third overall, following Argentina and England, which won the competition.
After being diagnosed with kidney failure, Moabeng underwent four years of dialysis before receiving a kidney transplant. The journey inspired him to help inspire others, he said.
“I underwent kidney transplant in 2009, which was successful,” he told OurHealth. “Now, I am living an active life and I have been the organ donation ambassador since then.”
But a lack of funds almost kept Moabeng from competing until Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital Spokesperson Nico Masiu helped spread the word that Moabeng was in need of funding.
Moabeng’s story was picked up by The New Age newspaper and readers flocked to his aid with some donating as much as R5,000.
“I appreciate everything the hospital’s team and many departments did,” said Moabeng. “I am proud of my achievement and I hope for more achievements and would love to encourage people to register to become organ donors.”
South Africa performs less than 300 kidney transplants annually, according to the South African Renal Society. About 4,300 South Africans are currently awaiting life-saving organ and cornea transplants, according to the Organ Donation Foundation.
“I had a wonderful amazing experience,” he added. “I learned that most of the countries understand and support organ donation, and I wish that my country can reach that stage too.”
Encouraging more people to become organ donors is just what the games were about, according to Masiu.
Moabeng urged people to become donors.
“You can make a difference. Get started today,” he said.
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