Andorran Nurse-Cyclist Thrives Post-Kidney Transplant via Sport

Mari Martínez, a nurse and cyclist from Andorra, has turned sport into a vital tool for personal recovery and raising awareness about organ donation following a kidney transplant.

In an interview on Diari TV's *Fora de Joc* programme, Martínez shared her journey, which began at age 16 with a diagnosis of nephropathy. The condition plagued her for a decade, involving treatments, cortisone, strict dietary limits and constant uncertainty. Rather than abandoning athletics—her first love, particularly pole vaulting—she used physical activity as her primary form of therapy. "Sport has always been my first medicine," she said, crediting it with sustaining her mentally and physically even on tough days. Simply showing up at training sessions with teammates helped her feel alive, despite physical limitations.

After the transplant, Martínez switched to cycling, a lower-impact discipline that allowed her to compete again. Her donor was her godmother, to whom she dedicates every medal: "These medals aren't mine, they're hers." She has podiumed at European and world transplant sports events, but emphasises that participation itself is the point—a celebration of life and proof that transplants enable full living.

The surgery brought unexpected challenges. Once her body stabilised, Martínez fell into depression. "During the process, survival mode takes over, but when it stops, the impact hits," she explained. Lacking peer support during her illness inspired her to join the board of Atida, an association filling gaps in patient and family resources. It has helped advance organ donation legislation and tissue donation programmes in Andorra, though she notes more progress is needed.

Martínez also practises reiki, at third level, and attends weekly kundalini yoga classes for their energetic balance. On the bike, she finds total focus: a way to channel vulnerability into purpose and support others.