Dick Winter

Dick received a liver transplant in 1990 after being told that he would not live much longerwithout one. The transplant was a success, and this second chance of life inspiredDick to become more active in many areas. With his efforts focussed on achieving andmaintaining a healthy lifestyle, Dick decided to take up swimming seriously, training underthe watchful eye of Master Swim Coach Steve Merker.

Dick won a bonze medal for swimming at the World Transplant Games in Vancouver in1993. With even more determination and training he followed that performance withan incredible 4 gold medals and 1 silver medal at the World Transplant Games heldin Manchester, England in 1995. Dick was all set to continue his dominance at the1997 championships in Australia, however at the last moment he was unable to attend. However,he did compete in Budapest, Hungary in the 1999 World Transplant Games where he won abronze medal.

In addition to swimming, Dick is also a member of Team Transplant - a Dragon Boat racing team. All themembers of Team Transplant have received a transplanted organ or were an organ donor. The team isfocused on staying healthy and increasing awareness of organ donation.

Dick worked for 46 years as an optician and has recently retired. He stays active by volunteering at avariety of agencies, including Brampton’s William Osler Hospital. He lectures at many events onOrgan Donor Awareness, and visits shut-ins at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he fi xes theireyeglasses. Dick also writes a national newsletter for the Canadian National Transplant Association(CTA) and is the Treasurer for the CTA.

Dick’s motto is “Seize the Day”, and make every moment count. His wish is that everyone would take thetime to sign a donor consent card and discuss their wishes with family members. The second chance oflife, that Dick is currently enjoying, would then be there for others on the waiting lists.

Inducted November 21, 2000