In 2012 my younger brother David was diagnosed with acute
Kidney (renal) Disease.  The severity and aggressiveness of his condition meant that David suffered complete kidney failure and it was quickly determined that he would need a kidney transplant.This was devastating news to both David and our family.

David had always been an active guy and was heavily involved
in cross country running and long distance running. Before any transplant could be considered David had to endure two years of daily dialysis (Haemo & Peritoneal) treatment. This treatment meant that David was attached to a dialysis machine which filtered and purified his blood. On top of that he also was also required to take a concoction
of steroids and medication to battle and subdue the disease.

After 2 years it was determined that the Disease was under
control and soon after he was placed on the deceased donor’s waiting list. This is where I come in. I had volunteered early on to give David one of my kidneys provided that we were a match. I did a series of tests and it just so happened we were an EXACT match. Soon after a date was set for surgery and there was no turning back.

Having two children from the one family undergo major surgery throws up all sorts of issues and problems that most parents and families never have to experience. To say the least it’s stressful. On the day of our surgery our parents, family and partners gathered together with us in Beaumont hospital. David and I said our goodbyes and we were soon taken away for surgery.

The facilities and staff at Beaumont Hospital are fantastic but unfortunately their small family room  wasn't up to the task of handling the large group that had accompanied us to the Hospital. This is where the Irish Kidney Association stepped in. The IKA works to improve the lives of patients and their families. They provide important services all year round as well as information and support for those that are affected by Kidney disease. More importantly the IKA runs the Renal Support Centre. This support center is located on the grounds of Beaumont Hospital. The Renal support Centre provides all year round facilities and accommodation for patients and families who are affected by Kidney disease or those whom are receiving a kidney donation.

I'm delighted to say that both David and Myself underwent  successful surgeries and David's new kidney settled in well and made itself at home. David and I both agree that the support and facilities of the IKA's Renal Support Centre made the lives of our family and friends so much more manageable during this difficult time. As a token of our appreciation both of us are running 26.2 miles in this years Dublin City Marathon on the 30th of October. It is our intention to raise a minimum of €1800 for the Irish Kidney Association to help support them in the important work they do. We kindly ask that you our friends, family and colleagues to sponsor us any amount for this run and every cent sponsored goes directly to the IKA. Thank you all for your continued support.