Retired Preston PE teacher and mum-of-four's life saved by organ transplant 20 years ago

Retired Preston PE teacher Nicki Detko received a liver transplant 20 years ago, enabling her to see her children grow up and the birth of six grandchildren.

The 66-year-old now shares her story, as a record number of people - more than 8,000 - face Christmas waiting for an organ transplant, including more than 250 children.

The Hope Takes Flight campaign is sharing Nicki’s story and how her life was saved by a liver transplant, as it seeks to inspire others to become lifesavers and to consider organ donation this festive season.

Nicki’s story

Retired PE teacher Nicki Detko had only months to live when an organ donor saved her life. The mum of four received a liver transplant in 2005 which has lasted 20 years this year, allowing her to see her children grow up and Nicki now has six grandchildren.

The 66 year old, from Preston, says: “When I gave birth to our fourth child in 1995 apparently it triggered an auto immune disease – PBC.

“Unbelievably I went on the transplant list on a Monday and had my liver transplant the following day. Although I had lived with the disease for ten years only discovering the diagnosis after five years.

“It was a shock to arrive home from signing transplant forms and then take a phone call to tell us to return 75 miles back as a suitable liver had become available for me. It left me thinking of my donor and family who were going through a very different situation to us.

“We now had to sort our children in as calm approach as possible as it was such an emotional time - new school, new college and university among the mix. Plus my parents moving in to help and try to keep home life as normal as possible. My husband drove 6,000 miles visiting hospital during that time.

“I asked after how long I had to live and was told 3 months at the most so it means everything as I would have never seen the children grow up, have successful careers, meet wonderful partners and go onto marry and have six gorgeous grandchildren and I think counting! Also to have been married over 40 years to my wonderful husband.

“It’s a proud moment 20 years on from transplant - I took part in the Manchester Marathon to celebrate and to thank my donor and family. Although I’m unaware who these special people are, I hope I have done them proud by living a healthy life and keeping fit and competing in The British, European and World Transplant Games winning many medals in golf, 5k and track races 800 and 1500m and some relays. I was a high school PE teacher who loved teaching and taking part in sport so it is fitting.

“I have told my transplant story many times to many groups, trying to raise awareness of organ donation and also taken part in events. I find this very rewarding and I enjoy trying to give something back including raising funds for transplant charities.

“It’s not a shock more people are waiting as medical science has advanced so much. Thirty years ago my GP had never met anyone with PBC and now it’s picked up fast. I signed my failed liver to medical science in the hope of helping others and medics.

“I try to raise awareness and ask people to leave their family certain about their wish to donate in the hope that less people die waiting. That is heartbreaking and makes me realise I am one lucky lady.

I have had many conversations when people are doubtful - and I say what if it was you or your child - it does focus people’s thinking. Many people have never met an organ recipient and my story has inspired many to talk to their families and listen to my message.

Nicki adds: “It was an absolute honour and pleasure to be able to take part in Hope Takes Flight. I am so grateful to be here 20 years after transplant and delighted to be given the opportunity to give some hope to others waiting or who have just been transplanted

“I am also deeply saddened and sorry for the ones who passed away but in awe of their wonderful families who allow their loved one’s organs to live on and hopefully make them proud like we all are of our donors.”

Nicki’s video is being shared on NHS Organ Donation’s social media channels in the run up to and over Christmas to raise awareness. Watch them and share them on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and Linked In – search NHS Organ Donation, @nhsorgandonor.

It is hoped the campaign videos will prompt people to confirm their support for organ donation on the NHS Organ Donor Register and tell their family.

You can also confirm your support for organ donation on the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk, call 0300 123 23 23 or use the NHS app. Please tell your family about your decision.