Thank you for visiting our Great North Run fundraising page.

So, why are we doing this, and why kidney research?

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.

Last year Jo and myself ran the Great North Run while Amy could only watch. The good news is that Amy is in remission now and this years Great North Run with me will be an acknowledgement of just how far she has come.

We are going to run the Great North Run in aid of Kidney Research, all we ask is for you to dig deep and give us as much support as you can so we can help fund further research into kidney disease, its causes and its treatment.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor us: Kidney Research UK will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

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 us online.

Many thanks for your support.

Mike and Amy.

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If you would like to see how we are doing and follow our progress our training blog is now up and running at

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