The charity are deeply saddened to hear of Donal’s passing due to COVID-19. Donal’s impact on the kidney community has been immense. Having been a consultant renal physician since 1992 he has also been the inaugural President of the British Renal Society, President of the Renal Association, and the first National Clinical Director of Kidney Care at the Department of Health between 2007 and 2013. Having spent more than 30 years working to improve the care of people with kidney disease, Donal has also been the Chair of Trustees of Kidney Care UK since 2016; and everyone at the charity will miss him terribly.
Donal was an inspiration to so many in our community. He was tireless in his support for kidney patients, never hesitating to listen to all, to highlight inequalities and promote the best possible care for kidney patients. His care and support for kidney patients really did make a difference, and will continue to do so for years to come. Our thoughts and sympathies go to his wife Marie, their three children and four grandchildren. The Renal Association and Royal College of Physicians will be holding a memorial in the summer when it is hoped we can all come together to celebrate and honour his life and incredible achievements.