Regsitered Charity: 1084319

The aim of the trust, set up by Simon Needs (Liver recipient) is to raise the awareness of the benefits of organ and tissue donation.

Simon had a liver transplant in 1995 and took part in the BT Global Challenge on the yacht ‘Time & Tide’ in 1996-97. It has been his dream since to raise awareness of the benefits of organ donation. The trust is delighted to announce that Simon’s dream is about to come true with the entry into the Clipper ventures round the World Yacht Race 2002. Our yacht, crewed solely by transplant recipients, including Simon, and called “Gift of Life LONDON’ will compete against at least 8 other yachts in an 11 month race around the globe. The race will set sail in September 2002, and will visit around 20 ports worldwide. It is planned that each of the other yachts will also have up to 3 crew who have received transplants. This race will demonstrate that, having already undergone a major trauma in their lives recipients can rise to this momentous challenge and prove that they are truly able bodied. A specialist doctor will be on board at all times helping to safeguard the crew.

The Gift of Life is delighted that Wendy Richard MBE has kindly agreed to be the yachts Godmother and Roger Black MBE the Godfather

Corporate and individual sponsors are sought, with many excellent packages available. In 1996-97 ‘Time & Tide’ received more publicity than all the other yachts combined. Any company interested could benefit greatly from the same level of coverage. Please contact us via the website for more details. The longevity of this venture will appeal to corporate sponsors and public alike.

The yacht will also take part in other races, both before and after the round the world yacht race giving limitless opportunities for crew training and publicity for the organ and tissue donation movement.

It will carry with it the Commemorative Book containing the names of 1000’s of donors and recipients to wherever it travels.

After the race the Trust is to establish a sailing school for all those involved in transplantation where new confidences and abilities will be developed and team-building excercises provided for the improvement of individuals and organisations alike.

This is just one of the events the trust has planned, here is another…

The BUPA Great North Run 2001
In September 2001 we are entering a team in the BUPA Great North Run, again headed by Simon. It is hoped that as many as 150 runners who have received a transplant or are involved with the transplant community will take part. Anyone interested can get a guaranteed entry by contacting the Gift of Life events department via the website.