Keralite Dinoy Thomas to participate in World Transplant Olympics at Australia

KOCHI: Keralite Dinoy Thomas (39) is going to compete in 5 km Marathon in the World Transplant Olympics in Perth. Dinoy will fly to Australia on the 13th along with Dr Jo Joseph, a cardiologist and LDF candidate from Thrikkakara. The Olympics will commence on April 15.

Dinoy, a native of Kaipadamugal in Thrikakkara, is a driver at a car dealership in Ernakulam. The travel expenses are borne by the dealership.

In 2013, Dino had a heart transplant surgery after suffering from dilated cardio myopathy. He received the heart of Thrissur native Libu. The surgery took place at Lisie Hospital led by Dr Jose Periyapuram.

Dr Jose and Dr Joseph gave confidence to Dinoy to participate in the competition. His wife Sheena and children Aleena and Adon are his strength.

Hard worker

He supported his family after learning DTP on his own after the surgery. In 2015, he joined a car dealership. Dinoy can now drive long distances. He also drives an autorickshaw at night after work.

The World Transplant Olympics is organized for organ transplant recipients and donors. It is recognised by International Olympics Committee. The first Olympics was held in England in 1978. This time, more than 2,500 athletes from 50 countries, are competing. 30 athletes are participating from India.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Ministers P Rajeev and MB Rajesh handed over the jersey to Dinoy and wished him good luck.

Dr Jose Periyapuram says that Dinoy is an answer to people who say that a normal life is not possible after heart transplant.

Dinoy Thomas said that he started jogging after the surgery and practices daily for one hour.