Oxley schoolgirl going for gold

Photo: Kylie Trigell

IN May, The Satellite brought you the story of Kiara Linton, a seven-year-old Oxley State School student who was busily fundraising so she could compete in the Junior World Transplant Games.

Well Kiara is well on the way to achieving her goal, and has so far fundraised about $2500.

“(We're) only $1500 away from our goal,” Kiara's father, Andy Linton said.

Kiara and one of her parents are required to stay onsite at the Games for the entire eight days, at the cost of $4000.

Kiara will be competing in both swimming and athletics as well as the ball throw at the Games, and is currently training hard, swimming up to three times a week.

“She doesn't get a lot of reprieve (from training),” Mr Linton said.

To be a competitor at the Junior World Transplant Games, athletes have to be a recipient of an organ or tissue donation.

Kiara was diagnosed with acute-myeloid leukaemia two years ago, after complaining about consistently sore knees and elbows.

After her diagnosis, Kiara underwent six months of chemotherapy in addition to a bone marrow transplant, and went into remission after four weeks.

Mr Linton said Kiara was now feeling really good.

“Now a flu is just a flu, not a trip to the hospital,” he said.

The Junior World Transplant Games are being held next month on the Gold Coast.

• To help Kiara reach her goal visit http://www.everyday hero.com.au/kiara_linton.