I’m writing this on behalf of my son, Joshy, 29, who has Down Syndrome and last year received a life changing kidney transplant.

This summer, he will be taking part in the British Transplant Games 2025 in Oxford, supported by myself (his mum, Julie) and Joshy’s dad, Kevin. We will be taking part in a “fun run” but we will be walking as will others too.

In October 2024 Joshy received a kidney transplant in Guy’s hospital after a diagnosis of kidney failure since 2022. During this time, Sussex Kidney Patient Association (SEKPA) provided our family with invaluable support, due to Joshy’s additional needs. SEKPA provided us with accommodation throughout his time at Guy’s as he needed us to stay close by and be on hand to advocate for him. He also needed us to provide much needed emotional and physical support during the transplant and his recovery.

Thankfully, after his operation and 3 weeks in hospital recovering, Joshy’s transplant was a success. Since then, he has been able to return to all his favourite activities that dialysis had made so difficult. Social clubs, drama, swimming and spending time with friends.

We want to say thank you by raising money for them and hope you can help us support a charity close to our family’s heart.

I have just added some photos of over the last couple of years - before and after the transplant. I will probably add more! Through his journey from being diagnosed to him receiving his transplant and after, he has been a star and so brave. We are so proud of him. I must also say how proud we are of his siblings and their partners, their love and support has been amazing.