As some of you may know, I unexpectedly lost my Dad in September of last year. Although taken way too soon, Dad wouldn't have been able to live such a fulfilling and gratifying life without charities such as Kidneys for Life.

As a result, on October 13th, 2024, I will participate in the Manchester Half Marathon to raise money for this wonderful charity.

I've been chipping away at a 13-week training plan in the background, so now that I'm over halfway through that process, it felt like an appropriate time to set this page up.

Admittedly, it's a sport that favours my mum's knees more than it did my old man's. However, I've always fancied the challenge, and this felt like a perfect opportunity to invest that aspiration and energy into something so close to my and my family's hearts.

My Dad received care at Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI) for over twenty-five years, including both his kidney and pancreas transplants.

Kidneys for Life was a charity very close to his heart. It provided him with an MRI consultant who was fundamental to Dad's care and well-being over the years.

For almost 50 years, Kidneys for Life has worked with patients, families and staff across the North West of England to provide vital funding for research into all elements of kidney disease.

Donations are used to:

- Provide funding for research into kidney disease, transplantation, dialysis and related diseases affecting the kidney

- Support the education and training of kidney related teams and patients

- Provide patient amenities for kidney and transplant patients

- Purchase medical equipment

Kidneys for Life work hard to ensure that they make the best use of the funds they receive and continue to carry out award-winning research so that they can make a kidney for life, a reality.

Thank you so much in advance for any donation you have shared.