Triple transplantee scores 3 golds at Transplant Games of America

MAYWOOD, IL – Nathan Weimer, a patient who has undergone kidney and lung transplants, has won three gold medals in the

Weimer, 22, a patient at the Loyola University Medical Center, won two gold medals in bowling and one gold in co-ed basketball.

"Nate is a very determined individual and a great kid. It's remarkable he was able to win three gold medals despite not feeling 100 percent," said Dr. Erin Lowery, the patient’s physician. "He was able to fight through his health issues and achieve his goals. It's a great accomplishment."

Weimer, born with cystic fibrosis, underwent a double-lung transplant at age 9. The medications he took to prevent rejection led to kidney failure, so he underwent a kidney transplant when he was 16.

"Nathan always comes into clinic with a smile on his face," said his nurse, Erin Mahoney. "He never thinks of himself as a transplant recipient but instead tries to live life to the fullest."

The Transplant Games, held July 28-31 in Grand Rapids, Mich., are intended to raise awareness for organ donation. They are open to athletes who have received an organ transplant and are in good health.