We're raising funds to support for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Kidney Patients Association (Qehkpa) in memory of my inspirational mother, Dawn-Marie Johnson who sadly passed away on the evening of January 10th 2020, aged 48

Those that already know Dawn know she's a tough cookie, however she never let that phase her neither get in the way of her goals in life. October 1st 1986 she received a life saving kidney transplant at the age of 14. Throughout this time the Kidney Patients Association provided support for Dawn during this time and the years that followed. Thanks to the magical work of the association Dawn managed to fulfill her life goals of being able to pursue a career and raise her own child.

Dawn and us as a family were very grateful to be given a priceless gift of life, we always remembered her donor, their family, and the gift that it gave her every day. To commemorate her new organ it was named Sidney The Kidney and every year on October the 1st we celebrated the blessings it gave, this year making it 33 years!

Dawns health was relatively stable up until January 2019 when she was later diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS and Anal cancer. Treatment options were unfortunately limited as it posed a large risk to compromising her renal function. Once faced with the tragic news Dawn was hardly phased. Although weaker, she still had a lot of fight and drive. After spending months in hospital she was eager to get out and enjoy life whilst she could, this showing how much of a strong and inspirational lady she was. Due to inflammation caused by acute infections and general disease progression Dawn later lost the use of
her legs, however this did not stop her wanting to return to work one day, thus illustrating her true admiration and passion for what she did. Once discharged she was looked after by around the clock nursing care however unfortunately this did not stop her from suffering from reoccurring sepsis on a regular basis causing an increased deterioration in her condition, this was later to be what contributed to her passing on that sad evening on January 10th 2020. 

As her son I feel that it is my responsibility to express her massive appreciation to the association on her behalf because they enabled her to be given a second chance at life.Without the support provided from the association I would have not been here neither.

Dawn's funeral will be held at Gornal Wood Crematorium DY3 2PT @ 12:20 pm on Thursday 20th February 2020. All who wish to attend are welcome but we ask that only close family provide flowers. 

All those who wish may instead donate money on this page to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Kidney Patients Association (Qehkpa).

There will also be a collection on the day for those who wish to donate in person.

Thanks for taking time out of your day to read this,

Rhys :)