A Stephensons colleague who underwent a life-saving heart transplant less than two years ago has helped England become Transplant Football World Cup champions.
Martyn Jackson, a paralegal in the regulatory team at Stephensons, scored for England as they secured a 5-1 victory over Spain in the final of the Transplant Football World Cup in Frankfurt. The tournament brings together transplant recipients from around the world, celebrating the life-changing impact of organ donation.
Martyn's achievement comes after an extraordinary period in his life. Following a football match in October 2024, he became seriously unwell and was diagnosed with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart. Within weeks, he was placed on the super urgent transplant waiting list before receiving a donor heart at Wythenshawe Hospital in November 2024.
Martyn's journey has already inspired colleagues across Stephensons, who raised more than £7,200 for New Start - The Wythenshawe Transplant Fund in 2025. The donation helped the charity purchase specialist rehabilitation equipment for transplant patients, while Martyn's appointment as a trustee has enabled him to support others going through similar experiences.
Martyn Jackson said:
"When I received my transplant, I never imagined I'd one day be representing England, let alone helping the team win a World Cup. It's been an incredible journey and one that simply wouldn't have been possible without the generosity of my donor and their family. I'm proud to be able to raise awareness of organ donation and show what's possible after transplantation."
Sean Joyce, Managing Partner at Stephensons, said:
"Everyone at Stephensons is enormously proud of Martyn and everything he has achieved. We've followed his recovery, supported the fundraising efforts for New Start and seen first-hand the determination he has shown throughout his journey. To see him represent England and become a World Cup winner is a fantastic achievement and a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation."
