Public Relations Deparment Wheaton College 501 College Ave. Wheaton, IL 60187-5593
Patricia Swindle, Director of Public Relations Scott Mathias, Media Relations Assistant (630) 752-5015 [email protected]
Dr. Ivan Fahs Will Put His Heart Into Competition at the U.S. Transplant Games in Columbus, Ohio
Wheaton, IL--Ivan Fahs knows the worth of a good heart. As a sociology professor at Wheaton College, he studies and teaches how the values of the heart affect societies. As a recipient of a heart transplant, he understands the importance of a physically fit heart.
"I never get use to how miraculous it is that I am alive," said Fahs, remembering the massive heart attack that nearly took his life.
Next month, August 5-8, Fahs will travel to Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, to take part in the U.S. Transplant Games. He will be among 2,000 organ recipients who will come together to not only compete in more than a dozen sporting events, but to celebrate the gift of a healthy life and to promote awareness of the need for organ donors.
While Fahs is an ardent advocate of organ donation, an act of unselfishness will be his inspiration at the games.
"I can speak sincerely from my new heart because the family of a Hispanic teenage girl made the decision to donate her organs. I am very much indebted to them. Though I never met this girl, I am dedicating myself to the transplant games in her honor."
Fahs will participate in the 5-kilometer race, the softball throw, and biking events.
Though he does not expect to win a medal, Fahs does hope the goodwill and attention created by the games will encourage people to become organ donors. The number of organs being donated has decreased in the last few years, a fact of great significance to Fahs. Had organs not been as readily available at the time of his heart attack, he said he probably would not be here today.
In January 1995 while waiting outside the United Center to attend a Chicago Bulls basketball game, Fahs suffered a severe heart attack. Having previously undergone triple bypass surgery, his weakened heart could not withstand much more trauma. Fahs believes it was by an act of God's grace that he had to wait only three days to receive his new heart. By the fall, Fahs had resumed his teaching duties at the college, where he has continued to serve with distinction.
"I am an example of God's mighty works," Fahs said. "I know that."
Fahs said he also knows part of the challenge prospective organ donors face is making their wishes known. He supports two coordinating organizations that help facilitate organ donation. In Illinois, the Regional Organ Bank of Illinois (ROBI), which can be reached by calling 1-800-545-4438, will answer questions about and help set up organ donations. Nationally, future organ donors can call the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) at 1-800-243-6667.
For more information, Fahs can be reached at 630/690-8225 or by email at [email protected].
-30-
RSS