A Mission of Resilience and Awareness 

In the warm and spirited heart of Virginia, a remarkable journey unfolds, one that transcends the conventional boundaries of sports, embodying a profound narrative of hope, resilience, and the unparalleled gift of life. At the forefront of this extraordinary venture is Richard Eitzel, a figure whose dedication and personal story illuminate the path for Team Virginia as they gear up for the Transplant Games of America in Birmingham, Alabama, come July 2024. This gathering is not merely a competition; it's a celebration of life, a testament to the miraculous outcomes of organ transplantation, and a powerful call to action for organ donation awareness.

The Genesis of Team Virginia TGA

The inception of Team Virginia TGA traces back to a deeply personal narrative of Richard Eitzel, a devoted father whose life took an unexpected turn when his son, at merely six weeks old, received a life-saving liver transplant. The transformative journey from a parent navigating the complexities of his child's medical condition to becoming a beacon of hope for many encapsulates the essence of Richard's mission. Amidst personal upheavals, including a divorce that saw him assume the role of a single parent, Richard's resolve only strengthened. His firsthand experience with the miracle of organ transplantation and the subsequent challenges inspired the foundation of Team Virginia TGA, following the closure of a previous non-profit dedicated to a similar cause.

Richard Eitzel's journey is not just about overcoming personal adversity but about leveraging his story to kindle a flame of awareness and hope across communities. With a background as diverse as owning ACL Insurance since 1992 and venturing into the establishment of an indoor adventure park, Richard's entrepreneurial spirit is matched only by his commitment to the cause close to his heart. The founding of Team Virginia TGA was a natural extension of his life's work, aiming to broaden the conversation around organ donation and transplantation through the medium of sports.

The Mission and Impact of Team Virginia

Team Virginia stands as a vibrant tapestry of lives intertwined by the common threads of gratitude and second chances. Comprising transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families, the team embodies a spectrum of stories, each echoing the critical importance of organ donation. From the youngest member at 22 to the eldest at 79, the team's diversity underscores the universal impact of transplantation across age groups. Richard Eitzel and his son, both active participants in the games, frequently engage with various groups to share their journey and the overarching message of Team Virginia: the success of transplantation and the dire need for more organ donors.

As the team prepares for the Transplant Games of America in Birmingham, their participation serves multiple purposes. It's a demonstration of the physical and emotional resurgence that transplantation can bring, offering a platform for athletes to showcase their strengths and resilience. Beyond the medals and accolades, however, lies the team's true victory: fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the life-altering potential of organ donation. The games provide a unique opportunity for participants to connect, share their experiences, and collectively advocate for a cause that has given them a second lease on life.

The ethos of Team Virginia and the Transplant Games of America resonates with the notion that these events are about "good sports, not necessarily good athletics." It's a celebration of life, an acknowledgment of the donors and healthcare professionals who make these second chances possible, and a rallying cry for the thousands still waiting for their miracle. The team's presence at the games is a powerful testament to the success of organ transplantation, showcasing not just the physical prowess of the participants but the indomitable spirit that defines each member of Team Virginia.

A Call to Action

Behind the competitive spirit and camaraderie of Team Virginia lies a deeper mission: to amplify the conversation around organ donation and to illuminate the path for potential donors. With over 100,000 individuals awaiting life-saving transplants and countless others in need of tissue and cornea transplants, the urgency of this mission cannot be overstated. Team Virginia's participation in the Transplant Games of America serves as a beacon of hope, highlighting the transformative impact of organ donation on recipients and their families.

The team's efforts extend beyond the biennial games; through various outreach initiatives and speaking engagements, Richard Eitzel, his son, and the entire Team Virginia strive to educate and inspire. The narrative they carry is a compelling call to action, urging individuals to consider the legacy of life that organ donation represents. The team's website, teamvirginiatga.org, stands as an open invitation for others to join this life-affirming mission, whether as athletes, supporters, or advocates for organ donation.

Looking Ahead to Birmingham 2024

As the calendar turns towards July 2024, the anticipation builds not just for the competition but for the broader impact of Team Virginia's presence at the Transplant Games of America in Birmingham. This event will not only showcase the athletic achievements of transplant recipients and donors but will also serve as a poignant reminder of the gift of life that organ donation represents. Through each race run, each ball thrown, and each life celebrated, Team Virginia will continue to spread their message of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection.

In a world often divided by differences, Team Virginia TGA represents a unifying force, a reminder of what can be achieved when humanity comes together for a cause greater than itself. Led by Richard Eitzel, a dedicated dad, entrepreneur, and visionary, the team is more than a group of athletes; they are ambassadors of life, champions of hope, and advocates for the miracles that organ donation can bring. As they prepare to take the stage in Birmingham, their journey stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, the beauty of second chances, and the unbreakable bond of a community united by the gift of life.