Paddle For Life

Paul, a Live donor

Thursday 1st May Share

Mick’s Journey, Paul’s Extraordinary Generosity, and a New Purpose

Tuesday 18th Mar

At 42 Mick Whitham, received life-changing news—he had Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a hereditary condition with a 50% chance of being passed down at birth. In the early stages, PKD affects blood pressure and kidney function, but as it progresses, it brings fatigue, dangerously high blood pressure, kidney failure, and potassium imbalances. When kidney function drops below 10%, the only options are dialysis or a transplant.

Mick’s battle with PKD was deeply personal—his own mother had donated a kidney to his father in 2008, and even after 17 years, her kidney continues to function remarkably. But when Mick’s turn came to face kidney failure, an act of mateship and selflessness changed everything.

In 2019, Paul and his wife, Lenore, reached out to Mick and his wife, Lyn, with an extraordinary offer. Paul had just learned about Mick’s condition and, without hesitation, said, “I want to be a live donor. What do I have to do?”

Becoming a living donor is no small decision. Paul underwent rigorous medical testing to ensure his health was in peak condition and that donating a kidney wouldn’t impact his quality of life. Mick, too, had to undergo extensive assessments to confirm he was a viable transplant recipient. But through it all, Paul never wavered.

Fourteen months after the transplant, both men are thriving. Paul is competing in short triathlons, completing park runs, and traveling without issue. He has no regrets and assures Mick that, if given the chance, he would do it all again in a heartbeat. His humility, kindness, and generosity have not only saved Mick’s life but have also given his family an immeasurable gift.

Meanwhile, Mick’s younger brother remains on dialysis, a daily reminder of what life could have been. Every day, Mick is grateful beyond words for Paul’s selfless decision—one that freed him from a future tied to machines and uncertainty.

This experience gave Mick a new perspective on life, health, and the importance of staying active. Since his transplant, he has embraced pickleball with renewed energy, playing as often as possible. Now, he’s taking it a step further—becoming a pickleball coach.

Mick’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of organ donation and the strength of the human spirit. Paul’s gift didn’t just save Mick’s life—it gave him a new purpose.

Thousands of Australians are still waiting for a life-saving organ transplant, and with the support of DonateLife, the Yeppoon Tennis Club Pickleball community is coming together for Paddle for Life to raise awareness and inspire action. Mick’s journey is a powerful reminder that organ donation isn’t just about saving lives—it’s about giving people the chance to truly live. This event will not only spark important conversations but also support Kidney Health Australia, with all funds raised going directly to their vital programs. Every game played, every paddle swung, and every donation made helps create a future where more lives can be saved through organ donation.

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