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Spokespeople
Larry Hagman , AKA Major Nelson, J.R. Ewing
Liver Transplant Recipient
Larry Hagman , a liver transplant recipient and star of the hit TV series’ “I Dream of Jeannie” and “Dallas,” has been attending the U.S. Transplant Games since 1996. “I love a celebration, and I love anniversaries, especially this year since I am celebrating the 10 th Anniversary of my successful transplant,” Larry said. “It is in that spirit that I anticipate with great pleasure celebrating the Gift of Life with over 7,000 organ donor recipients, donors, their families and the health care professionals who will be attending this year’s Games.”
Larry has become a champion of organ donation since receiving his life-saving transplant and he looks forward to participating in the Opening Ceremonies, Donor Recognition Ceremony and medals presentations at the 2006 U.S. Transplant Games.
KEN HOWARD, AKA “White Shadow,” Max Cavanaugh
Kidney Transplant Recipient
As the chancellor of the National Kidney Foundation, Ken Howard promotes organ donation and kidney disease awareness. Howard, 62, star of such television series as the “The White Shadow” and “Crossing Jordan,” received a new kidney in July 2000 after a misdiagnosed blockage was not treated and he suffered serious kidney damage. His kidney was a gift from his dear friend, legendary stuntwoman Jeannie Epper who proudly proclaims the kidney donation as “the best stunt” she ever performed. Epper was back working in her garden just four days after the surgery.
“As an actor, I'm always happy to get a spare part here and there, but I never thought I'd be carrying one inside me,” Howard said. “My kidney transplant was no joke, but enjoying a longer, fuller life does give me the last laugh. Every time someone says, 'break a leg,' I do have to admit--that would have been a lot easier.”
He looks forward to welcoming the transplant athletes from across the country at the Opening Ceremonies of the 2006 U.S. Transplant Games. He will also be presenting medals to track and field winners and serving as MC at the Living Donor Recognition Ceremony and Closing Ceremonies.
CHRIS KLUG, Olympic Bronze Snowboarding Medalist
Liver Transplant Recipient
Chris Klug , Olympic snowboarder and liver transplant recipient, is inspired by the Transplant Games participants, young and old, who make the most of their gift by getting in shape and competing in sports. Having overcome a seven-year battle with liver disease, Chris won the bronze medal in the men's parallel giant slalom competition at the 2002 Winter Olympics. “I'm fired up for the Transplant Games this summer. I wouldn't miss it for anything. It's the highlight of the summer for me. The Transplant Games is the coolest and most fun event I've ever been a part of,” Klug said. “Celebrating my second chance with so many that have received the same gift is an awesome thing. I can't wait!”
Klug has been attending the Transplant Games since 2002 and will be participating in the Opening Ceremony and the 5K Race for Organ and Tissue Donation.
GEORGE LOPEZ,
Comedian, Co-Creator and Star of “The George Lopez Show”
Kidney Transplant Recipient
ANN LOPEZ,
Kidney Donor
Ann and George Lopez are the newest spokespeople for the National Kidney Foundation, helping raise awareness about the need for early detection for kidney disease and the importance of organ donation.
“I'm feeling better than I’ve ever felt before,” George says. “Both my wife and I are extremely excited about meeting fellow transplant recipients and other donor families at the National Kidney Foundation U.S. Transplant Games.”
George will compete in the golf event and participate in Closing Ceremonies and Ann will be the keynote speaker at the Living Donor Recognition Event. Both will present medals to winning athletes.
