Heart transplant to World Cup glory for Martyn Jackson

He was fighting for his life after a heart transplant in 2024 — then he scored for England in a World Cup final.

N. Jackson

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What happened. Martyn Jackson was diagnosed with myocarditis after playing for Ramsbottom United in October 2024 and received a donor heart on 28 November 2024. In September 2026 he scored for England in a 5-1 Transplant World Cup final win over Spain.

• Jackson had successful transplant surgery at Wythenshawe Hospital in Greater Manchester.
• England beat Spain 5-1 in the Transplant World Cup final in Frankfurt.
• The win came three days before Organ Donation Week.

“I'll be forever grateful to my donor and the family for what they've given me.”

— Martyn Jackson

Jackson's story highlights the life-changing impact of organ donation ahead of Organ Donation Week.

In this story

N. JacksonEngland

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