A YOUNG woman from Minchinhampton who underwent a lifesaving transplant at six months old is now representing the UK at an international level.

Inspirational Kelly Young, 21, is competing in seven swimming events as part of team GB at the 2015 World Transplant Games in Argentina this week.

After claiming an incredible 20 golds and seven silvers in the four previous world games, she is hoping to defend her titles as she competes against transplant patients from 69 countries around the world.

At only six months old Kelly underwent an emergency procedure to save her life.

With only days to live, her mum Denise underwent a pioneering technique whereby she donated part of her liver to her daughter.

Because of her mother’s bravery and selflessness, she survived and was able to grow up leading a normal life with her family in Minchinhampton.

Kelly first became involved with Transplant Sport UK when she attended her first British Transplant Games in 2002.

Developing a passion for swimming, she soon started competing in the games, scooping up gold and silver medals in every event she entered.

Her abilities were soon recognised and she was selected for the GB team of the World Transplant Games.

Kelly attended her first World Games in Bangkok, Thailand in 2007 and returned home with seven gold medals for different swimming events, including her favourite – butterfly.

Over the next six years she won an incredible 13 gold medals and three silver medals at the international games in Australia, Sweden and South Africa.

Fresh from her graduation with a degree in Textiles for Fashion and Interiors, this week she is competing in the 2015 games, which are being held in Mar Del Plata.

Speaking to the SNJ last week, Kelly said she was hopeful she could continue her good form and bring home the golds again.

“I’m so excited to be competing this year,” said the former Sir William Romney's pupil.

“There are around 1500 athletes taking part in all competitions– it’s just like a mini Olympics.

“Through sport the games raise awareness of organ donation and demonstrate the life-changing benefits of organ transplantation.

“It is a hugely competitive event with athletes at a very high level. Obviously I hope I can win medals again, but a big part of the games is about raising awareness.”

“I was lucky to have had the opportunity to take part and travel to all these incredible places, but not all families have been so lucky.

“Without organ donation I wouldn’t be here today so the issue something very close to my heart.

“I don’t think there is enough awareness about the games, practically no one has heard of them, so I want to try and raise the profile and help break down the stigma attached to organ donation.”

Taking time away from her studies and intensive training schedule, Kelly has visited a number of primary schools, rotary clubs and swimming clubs around Stroud to tell her story.

She urged people to consider registering as an organ donor by visiting www.organdonation.nhs.uk

For more information on the World Transplant Games please visit: www.wtgf.org/