Story
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p>I am running the Edinburgh Half Marathon on Sunday 27th May 2012 to raise money for Kidney Kids, Scotland.</p>
<p>As most of you know, 18months ago, McKenzie developed HUS (Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome) which caused her kidneys to stop working. Although, it did not feel it at the time we are very aware as to how lucky she was as early diagnosis meant that she got the treatment required to get her kidneys to work again. Although she still has to go through more tests this year, the doctors are hopeful that her kidneys will have made a full recovery.</p>
<p>As a mum I cannot even begin to tell you how terrifying it is to see your child so ill, praying that each day will be a good one and so excited when she finally goes for a "pee". Even once she was discharged from hospital there was the new anxiety of keeping her safe and feeling so bad everytime she has to go back to hospital for yet more blood tests. McKenzie is such an inspiration because despite all that she has been through, she is such a happy loving little girl.</p>
<p>When I decided to run the half marathon I knew I wanted to support a charity so close to my own heart and Kidney Kids Scotland is that. The Charity was set up in July 2000 to help children with renal illness and their families.Their main objective is to enable children to recieve treatment as close to home as possible, minimizing the disruption to the family unit. I can fully understand how important this is because at the time McKenzie was ill we briefly had to split up the family unit and had to rely on friends to look after Euan as we could not get treatment for McKenzie near home. In addition they raise money to supply hospitals with much needed equipment such as haemodiafiltration machines, viral detection equipment, bladder scanners and much more. They have also funded a renal nurse post, dietician & a psychologist for 3 years which all proved to be so successful that the NHS now funds these much needed staff.</p>
<p>Having the personal experience of having a child affected by kidney disease I realise how invaluable this charity is to so many children in Scotland. </p>
<p>Running the half marathon will be a challenge for me as I am not a runner, it is only something I have started in the last couple of years but knowing that the money raised will make a difference to such a fantastic cause will definately make the sore feet & legs worthwhile.</p>
<p>Please, support me by donating to this fantastic charity through my just giving page. Any amount that you can afford will make a difference to a child's life.</p>
<p>Thank you for your support, Elaine xx</p>
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