Mick's Journey: A Story of Hope, Generosity, and a New Purpose

Mick Whitham's life took an unexpected turn at 42 when he was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). This hereditary condition, which his own mother had seen in his father, can lead to severe health challenges, including kidney failure.

When kidney function drops below 10%, the only options are dialysis or a transplant.

Mick's experience with PKD became deeply personal when he faced the possibility of kidney failure. But then, an extraordinary act of kindness changed his life.

In 2019, Paul and his wife, Lenore, reached out to Mick and his wife, Lyn, with an extraordinary offer. Paul had just learned about Mick’s condition and, without hesitation, said:

“I want to be a live donor. What do I have to do?”

Becoming a living donor is no small decision. Paul underwent rigorous testing to ensure he was a suitable donor, while Mick also had to be assessed as a viable recipient. But through it all, Paul never wavered.

Now, fourteen months after the transplant, both men are thriving. Paul is back to enjoying an active lifestyle, competing in short triathlons, completing park runs, and traveling without issue. He has no regrets and assures Mick that, if given the chance, he would do it all again in a heartbeat. Mick is free from the constraints of dialysis. This selfless act gave Mick's family an invaluable gift.

Mick's brother, who remains on dialysis, serves as a constant reminder of the difficult path Mick could have faced. Every day, Mick is grateful beyond words for Paul’s selfless decision—one that freed him from a future tied to machines and uncertainty.

This experience gave Mick a new perspective on life, health, and the importance of staying active. Since his transplant, he has embraced pickleball with renewed energy, playing as often as possible. Now, he’s taking it a step further—becoming a pickleball coach.

Mick’s story is a testament to the life-changing impact of organ donation and the strength of the human spirit. Paul’s gift didn’t just save Mick’s life—it gave him a new purpose.

Paddle for Life: Supporting Organ Donation & Kidney Health Awareness

• Date: Friday, 2 May
• Location: Yeppoon Tennis Club

Join us for a day of pickleball, mateship, and charity!

Paddle for Life celebrates generosity and the power of organ donation. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, this event welcomes corporate teams, community groups, and local businesses for a fun, competitive, and meaningful day of pickleball.

All proceeds will benefit Kidney Health Australia, with a focus on DonateLife awareness.

Event Schedule

⏰ 11:30 AM – Check-In & Warm-Up

• • Players arrive, check-in, and receive an introduction.
  • 45-minute practice session for new players & warm-up time.
  • BBQ lunch (included)
  • Presentation by Donate Life

⏰ 1:00 PM – Tournament Begins

⏰ 3:30 PM – Playoffs

⏰ 5:00 PM – Raffle Draw, Story of Mateship and Generosity & Social drinks

How to Get Involved

• ✅ Team Entry: $240 per team (4 players) – Includes BBQ for all players.
  • Register Your Team Today
    
    
• ✅ Donations Welcome: you can support the cause by donating directly to Kidney Health.
  • Donate Here
    
    
• ✅ Multi-Draw Raffle Prizes & Fundraising Opportunities.

Contact: Kel Rasmussen
Phone : 0429239193
Email: kelrassy@gmail.com

Let's rally for mateship, organ donation awareness, and a great cause! 

Learn more about Mike and his story and Paddle for Life on the Yeppoon Pickleball Website