In April 2014 I’ll be running The Shakespeare Half Marathon in Stratford. I’ll be raising money for Kidney Research UK in memory of a fantastic person. Dob (AKA Paul Roberts) had been my Dad’s best friend since their childhood, and was a close friend of the family.

Now, I’m conscious that I don’t want to do an emotional, gushing ramble to persuade you to sponsor me. Instead, I’m going to share a few of the most important facts behind my decision to run for Kidney Research UK.  And try to keep it brief. (Those of you who know me well will appreciate that this will be a challenge in itself!)

Dob grew up with a dialysis unit set up in his bedroom, missed out on a significant amount of his education and had a highly restrictive diet. Throughout his teenage years, his quality of life became increasingly more limited and he became seriously ill. However, things changed for the better when Dob received a kidney transplant at the age of seventeen.

As an enthusiastic fell walker and hiker, Dob went on to climb the highest peaks in England, Wales and Scotland, and explored the national parks of mainland America and Hawaii. He also took part in the first official British Transplant Games in 1978 and competed in numerous marathons.

As well as throwing himself into the physical aspects of life, Dob was incredibly wise and well read. Despite his lack of education in his early life, his thirst for knowledge and unmistakable intelligence were clear for all to see.

Not only did Dob relish his opportunity for life following his transplant, he struggled through on-going health problems with admirable stoicism. This, along with Dob’s inspiring attitude and passion for life have without a doubt done the memory of his donor proud.

I’ve decided to run for Kidney Research UK because they specialise in researching kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation. As well as improving treatment for kidney disease in itself, Kidney Research UK focuses on reducing the level of risk in kidney transplants and the complications which follow. Ultimately, research at this level materialises into providing people like Dob with the gift of life, and I think that’s incredible.

Most of you will be aware that I by no means have sporting history! I will undoubtedly be out of my comfort zone in attempting a run of this length. However, having had a great start at running with the help and support of Dob’s wife Lindy last summer, I’m confident I can step up to the challenge.

Thank you for reading and please support me in running for Kidney Research UK in memory of a truly inspirational person.

 

 

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