A transplant patient is taking part in an international sporting event to say a special thank you to his sister who donated her kidney to him. 

Edwin Yamoah, 26, of Colindale, will take part in the World Transplant Games in Durban, South Africa, next year.

He will compete in the 100m and 200m, long jump and relay events representing Royal Free Hospital, where he underwent treatment after being diagnosed with autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus in 2006.

Two years later the disease led to kidney failure. Eager to see her brother fit and well again, Mr Yamoah’s sister Antonella, 25, donated her kidney to him in April last year.

Speaking about the games, Mr Yamoah said: “This opportunity has only come about through my sister donating her kidney to me. I wouldn't be where I am without her and certainly wouldn't be part of Team GB.

“Selection for the team not only enables me to compete, but to celebrate my sister’s amazing gesture.

"It also means I can contribute to spreading the important message about the benefits of organ donation, which can hopefully lead to more lives being enriched through transplantation.”

Mr Yamoah was selected for the event following his success in the British Transplant Games earlier this year when he won silver medals in the 100m and 200m.

In preparation for the big event next year, he is training with two coaches at Barnet Shaftesbury Harriers athletics club at Alianz Park.

He said: “I feel truly proud and honoured to have been selected for team GB for the World Transplant Games. I was proud already, representing the Royal Free at the 2012 British Transplant Games and never even gave a thought to competing on a world stage.

“I think it is safe to say I have come a long way since kidney failure and going through my transplant.”

In the run up to the games Mr Yamoah is trying to raise £2,500 for Transplant Sport UK which raises awareness of the need for organ donations. To help him reach his target visit www.justgiving.com/edwin-yamoah