The National Kidney Federation relies completely on sponsorship and donations to continue its vital work supporting kidney patients and their families. I lost the function of my kidneys as a result of sepsis, which took me completely by surprise. After fourteen months on dialysis I was incredibly fortunate to be the recipient of a live donor kidney transplant, which has transformed my life and the lives of my
family.

It is only when you lose the function of your kidneys that you realise how devastating the consequences can be. I have been fortunate, but not everyone is and it is likely that Covid19 will result in many more patients requiring dialysis and possibly transplants.

Perhaps you can imagine what it may be like to be on dialysis three times a week, often taking four to four and a half hours and that’s without the travelling time to and from the dialysis centre. You can feel constantly nauseous, fatigued and find it hard to concentrate in combination with other symptoms. For many the ability to work is severely compromised, leading to financial hardship. So the help of the National Kidney Federation may be a lifeline.

During the Covid period, fundraising has been severely curtailed and the Federation has a drive asking members to walk 60,000 steps this June to raise vital funds. For many, this is not a difficult task, but for patients with kidney failure and especially those on dialysis, it can be like climbing a mountain. 

Sixty thousand steps to represent the 60,000 dialysis and kidney transplant patients in the UK.  I know that many charities make requests, if you feel able to support this project with a donation, I, but particularly the needy patients, would be extremely grateful.

Thank you

Michael