Nicola Stevens from Thornaby is planning to run the Great North Run on 8 September to raise awareness of kidney disease following her diagnosis in 2011. In light of her personal experience with kidney disease, Nicola has chosen to raise money for the UK’s leading kidney patient support charity, Kidney Care UK. Nicola is registered blind and lost her eyesight as a result of her kidneys failing so will be taking part in the Great North Run with the help of her running partner guide, brother-in-law Mike.
Nicola chose Kidney Care UK as she says people just aren’t aware of how vital kidneys are in keeping people healthy. She adds, “Most people you speak to list heart, brain and lungs as being the parts of the body that keep you alive but it wasn’t until my kidneys failed that I realised how crucial they are. I have been diabetic since I was 14 and when my eyesight started failing, I quickly realised that I needed to see my doctor. I’m now registered blind and it’s all because of my kidney disease. I’ve had a double transplant – kidney and pancreas – and am running the Great North Run to raise awareness of kidney disease so that others in my position can get the help they need. There is lots of support out there – friends, family, healthcare professionals and most importantly through Kidney Care UK – so take it while you can!”
Robert Hope, Head of Fundraising at Kidney Care UK, adds: “Many people don’t realise just how important their kidneys are until they stop working properly. As a charity we receive no government funding so we rely on the kind generosity of supporters like Nicola and Mike, and we will be cheering them on every step of the way.”
Nicola hopes to raise £350 for Kidney Care UK. You can sponsor her on her JustGiving page
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