Skip to main content

College Football Timekeeper, 83, Back After Transplant

Jim Ely, 83, became the oldest kidney transplant patient at St. Paul University Hospital in December — and was in charge of the play clock at the first College Football Playoff National Championship just weeks later.

Republish
The Carrol A. "Butch" Thomas Educational Support Center, which includes a football and soccer stadium and a natatorium, was built as part of a $388.6 bond package.
Credit: Callie Richmond

Jim Ely, 83, became the oldest, and last, kidney transplant patient at St. Paul University Hospital in December — and was in charge of the play clock at the first College Football Playoff National Championship just weeks later. He’d been on the kidney transplant waiting list for several years. Although he was older than most transplant recipients, his robust health and drive convinced physicians that he was a strong candidate. (The Dallas Morning News)

Texans need truth. Help us report it.

Independent Texas reporting needs your support. The Texas Tribune delivers fact-based journalism for Texans, by Texans — and our community of members, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth news and information. Will you support our nonprofit newsroom with a donation of any amount?

Yes, I'll donate today

Information about the authors

Christine Ayala’s staff photo

Learn about The Texas Tribune’s policies, including our partnership with The Trust Project to increase transparency in news.

Explore related story topics