Team Louisiana Heads to Denver For the 2026 Transplant Games of America

Recipients from Louisiana pay tribute to donor heroes while celebrating renewed life

Transplant recipients from across Louisiana will travel to Denver, Colorado, June 18-24, 2026, to compete in the 2026 Transplant Games of America, a national event that celebrates the life saving gift of organ, eye and tissue donation.  

Team LA is made up of transplant recipients, donor families, living donors and professionals from the donation and transplant community. This year, more than 20 athletes will represent Team LA in a wide range of sporting events and recreational activities, including cycling, volleyball, track and field, basketball, poker, cornhole, bowling, ballroom dancing and more. 

For over three decades, this biennial Olympic-style gathering has united thousands of people whose lives have been impacted by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The Games honor the enduring legacy of deceased donors, celebrate the growing impact of living donation, and showcase recipients whose lives stand as powerful examples of the transformative impact of transplantation. 

"Team LA represents the strength, resilience, and gratitude of the donation and transplant community," said Brett Gordon, LOPA President & CEO. "Each athlete carries a story of hope and healing that began with the generosity of a donor and their family. Their participation brings to light the lifesaving importance and impact of donation." 

LOPA and the LOPA Foundation are proud supporters of Team LA and its athletes. Gordon, along with several other LOPA staff, will cheer on Team LA in Denver during their quest to bring the gold back to Louisiana.