Thank you for visiting my Great North Run fundraising page.

So, why am I  doing this again  and why kidney research?

My daughter, Amy, was diagnosed with Kidney disease in August 2005. She spent 5 weeks in hospital followed by daily trips to the specialist renal unit for tests,observations and intravenous medication.

Until Amy was poorly, we knew nothing of the seriousness, or the debilitating effect Kidney disease and kidney failure has. When Amys kidneys started to leak protein and blood she suffered huge amounts of fluid retention, gaining two stones in as many weeks, her cholesterol level went up to 21, her potassium levels went sky high causing a serious risk of heart problems. She had high blood pressure and a resting heart beat of over 125. To name just a few of the problems. The multiple effects of the disease are frightening.

The one question no one can answer, is why a fit young girl should suddenly get so seriously ill.

Research has not yet been able to identify the trigger, much more research still needs to be done, which is where you and I come into it.

This will be my third GNR (you'd think I'd have learnt by now!) Two years ago I ran with Jo. Last year with Amys' condition in remission we ran it together. This year with Amy finally discharged from  hospital I am running it again on my own (well, along with 50,000 others!) and hope to take our fundraising for Kidney Research UK past the £3000 mark

All I ask is for you to dig deep and give me as  much support as you can so I can help fund further research into kidney disease, its causes and its treatment.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Kidney Research UK gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Kidney Research UK is dedicated to improving the understanding of kidney disease, its causes, treatment and management and prevention through funding research. Research that is currently supported ranges from molecular studies of how cells work through to clinical trials and health services research. Training of medical researchers is also an essential investment for the future. They allocate 75% of charitable income on training and research so the money we raise will be of massive benefit to the many people suffering from the symptoms of kidney disease.

Please sponsor me online.

Many thanks for your support.

Mike.

If you would like to see how I am doing and follow my progress my training blog is now up and running at

www.realbuzz.com/network/myBlogs/blog.php?blog=818