Before Covid struck, my brother and I had the worrying news that our amazing Dad's kidneys were not working properly and he had chronic kidney disease. Despite best efforts, this deterioration continued and after contracting Covid in 2021, Dad's kidney function became critical and he started dialysis but ultimately needed a kidney transplant.

Our amazing mum responded as she only could and signed up as a Living Donor to support Dad's chance to receive a kidney match through a four-way swop. Mum was unable to donate directly to Dad as they are different blood groups

They both embarked on a gruelling and long-term series of tests and life-style changes, whilst Dad's health continued to decline. Unfortunately, he contracted a very rare peritoneal infection which hospitalised him for over 6 weeks. As a result Dad was taken off the donor list. Dialysis and continual strong antibiotic treatment continued until Dad was given the all clear from the infection early in 2023. Dad was back on the list! and they both continued to work hard to keep as fit and healthy as possible

They were given a last chance at finding the match with very low odds of success. In May 2023, we received the incredible news that against all odds, a match had been found at the last chance saloon and final testing could proceed. On Thursday 15th June 2023 Mum and Dad received the news that a date for the transplant operations to take place over the summer through the living kidney donation scheme. This involves a swop between four people.

So this opportunity to fundraise for Give a Kidney is a chance to acknowledge and thank the most amazing gift of life given by Mum and the unknown person donating their kidney to Dad, in less than a month and the incredible opportunity for extending life and happiness that not only relates to those in need, but their family, friends and colleagues who will benefit as well.

I had various plans for this fund-raising including the Zermatt Marathon, but my own fitness was not up to it at the current time. This also prevented me being a living kidney donor. Instead, I've chosen a personal challenge closer to home. I'll be attempting to run a back to back double marathon on the 1st July. Starting in Minehead and following the SW Coastal Path up and down until I reach Lynmouth for the night. The next morning I will be hoping to run back up onto Exmoor and to the highest point Dunkery Beacon, before descending back through Dunster and on to collapse back in Minehead. Challenge stats: total of 53.37 miles and 10871 ft of ascent and descent.

Its a home made route and I plan to test my mettle, physical and mental stamina and prove that issues I've had to face in the last 3 years can't stop me either and that I can get back to where I want to be and hopefully follow up on my intention to donate a kidney to help someone else.

So, its an opportunity to raise awareness of being a living Kidney donor and to raise money for Give a Kidney https://www.giveakidney.org who provide amazing support and advice for those donating in an altruistic manner for someone they don't know.

Money is very tight and there are so many worthy causes, including other amazing kidney charities. But if you can spare a little - it will make a real difference.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.