Walking Land's End to John Groat's in 90 days

Congratulations to Kidney Wales fundraiser Ruth Martin who has completed her mamoth trek from Lands End to John O’Groats in 90 days.

The civil servant from London, whose brother works at the University Hospital for Wakles in Cardiff began her dauting 1,400 mile walk in April. And Ruth didn’t take the ‘easy route’ to the UK’s outermost reaches, instead zigzagging her way across the country’s coastal and public footpaths and national park trails.

“My brother John works at the University Hospital for Wales in kidney research and makes such a difference to people’s lives just like Kidney Wales does. That’s one of the reasons why I wanted to do my bit as well.

“The walk was hard, but an amazing experience and I would like to say a huge thank you to all those who have supported me along the way,” said Ruth.

Last year Ruth ran the London Marathon in under five hours, raising £3,700 for Kidney Wales. Already she has raised more than £2,000 from the walk and hopes to top the £3,000 mark soon.

“We would like to say a big thank you to Ruth for all her efforts; we are extremely proud of her. To walk more than 1,400 miles is an amazing achievement and the money she has raised will be used to help the lives of those affected by kidney failure,” said Kidney Wales chairman Roy J. Thomas.

Walk for life's a Welsh winner (From Western Telegraph)

Walk for life's a Welsh winner (From Western Telegraph)

Walk for life's a Welsh winner
12:50pm Monday 21st July 2008


Participants raising money for the Kidney Wales Foundation in Fishguard's Walk for Life have topped the chart of Welsh fundraisers, raising over £10,000 for the charity.

The event raised the most money out of the 33 walks taking part simultaneously around Wales last March.

WALK FOR LIFE DINNER 2008 A GREAT SUCCESS

Hundreds turned out at the City Hall Cardiff for the 2008 Walk for Life presentations with stars Alex Jones , Amanda Protheroe Thomas and legend Stuart Cable.Over 20 of the 37 Walks turned out.

The Walk for Life supporters generated over £77,000 for the Kidney Wales Foundation and Roy J Thomas said " Money is still coming in and we expect over £85,000 this year.It has been an amazing year for us. The work has been generous and selfless. The Kidney Children's Unit and the University of Wales Institute of Nephrology will benefit."

Communities like Ammanford and Fishguad raised over £10,000 in each Walk.Gwaenysgor from North Wales celebrated 10 years of walking.

Pictured is Alex Jones who helped host the evening.More pictures will be featured on Tuesday next week and on the KW website.

Walkers Step Out For Charity (from Barry And District News)

Walkers Step Out For Charity (from Barry And District News) click


THE Barry Walk For Life event raised more than £1,000 for the Kidney Wales Foundation on Sunday.
Over 30 walkers met up at Morrisons Car Park at 11am on Sunday morning, and walked to the Knap, through Romilly Park and back via Broad Street.
The event was organised again this year by Gaynor Taylor in memory of her son Richard who died in 2004, and her husband John who died two years ago, shortly before the walk.
Gaynor said: "We won't know exactly how much has been raised for a while - but we know that it is over £1,000.
"I'm really pleased - and we were really lucky to have such a nice day for the event."

Walk For Life Raises Over £4000 (from Western Telegraph)

Walk For Life Raises Over 4000 (from Western Telegraph) click

Around 250 people in Fishguard showed their support for the Kidney Wales Foundation by taking part in the Walk for Life .
The walk was organised by KW AMBASSDOR Allison John and family. Allison, who is studying medicine at Cardiff University, suffers from cystic fibrosis. She had a liver transplant and a heart and lung transplant in her late teens.
Just over a year ago the 29-year-old needed a kidney transplant and a suitable match was found in her father. In the course of her treatment she became involved with the Kidney Wales Foundation and became their ambassador.
The Fishguard walk was one of 33 going on simultaneously all over Wales to raise awareness and raise funds for kidney research and kidney patients. So far £4000 has been raised from sponsorship and collection boxes, with more money still to come in.
Allison's mother Helen was overwhelmed by the amount of people who showed up on the day.
"People were so supportive, I can't get over it." she said. "It was amazing a really good turn out and everybody walked from 75 year olds to babies in pushchairs. They all came in a jolly mood ready to walk. It was really rewarding for us as a family."

Walk The Line To Save A Life (from South Wales Guardian)

Walk The Line To Save A Life (from South Wales Guardian)

AMMANFORD
The Kidney Research Wales Walk for Life was a great success on Sunday , with more than 100 people taking part, including Welsh rugby superstars Shane Williams and Dwayne Peel.
"The walk was brilliant," said event organiser Chris Dark.
"The weather was good, despite the forecast, and we had more than 100 people taking part which was fantastic.
"Shane and Dwayne were excellent with the crowd."
With the cash still being counted, Chris felt the day had been a huge success.
"I'm not sure how much money we've raised yet, but I think it's quite a good sum," he said.
Barclays Bank Ammanford also took part in the walk and raised £850, and matched £750 as part of the bank's pound-for-pound Community Investment Programme.
The event was organised by the Kidney Wales Foundation which hopes to raise £100,00 and raise awareness of the kidney disease.
Ammanford Mayor Carol Cadman, who took part in the walk, was delighted with the turnout.
"There were children, families, people with dogs," she said.
"The rain kept away and the children were thrilled to see Shane and Dwayne, who signed a lot of autographs.
"I also beat my record from last year because I wasn't last in the race this time."
The Kidney Research Wales Foundation would like to thank everyone who took part, especially Carol, Shane and Dwayne.

Ruth’s taking on a trek - icWales

Ruth’s taking on a trek - icWales click here

by Jessica Flynn, South Wales Echo
RUTH Martin is getting her walking shoes on for a mammoth trek from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
The civil servant from London, whose brother John works at the University Hospital of Wales, will be raising money for the Kidney Wales Foundation.

CARMARTHEN

The Streets of Carmarthen were well filled with Walkers. Martin Presdee jones (Organiser) and Dylan Williams with walkers. Thank you to
Mayor of Carmarthen and Peter Hughes-Griffiths former Mayor, County Councilor and great supporter.Sisters from Llandeilo SurgerySt Johns Ambulance brigade who attendedMembers of St. Cynwr Womens Institute who served soft drinks at the half way halt at Glangwili Hospital.

PONTYPRIDD IN STYLE

Ponty Panda and the Chief with the Ponty Walkers did Zowiann proud at the Ponty Walk For Life.

Thank you the Flood Family, Barrie and all supporters.

SPORTING GREATS TURN OUT IN GORSEINON

GORSEINON FIRST WALK IS A GREAT SUCCESS

From left Nicky from the Roma 2000, Sharon Thomas -the organiser, Robert Croft (Glamorgan CC & England), Mark Taylor (Ospreys , Wales, British Lions) Leighton James (Swansea, Burnley and Wales)
front row Tiffany , Molly and Whitney.

Thank you Sharon and Gorseinon.

PORTHCAWL WALK FOR LIFE 2008 TURN OUT IS GREAT AGAIN THIS YEAR FOR SEASIDERS

The Porthcawl Walk was a great success again this year. Jean Schofield hot from winning the woman in the community award and Mary Gentry who won the fundraiser award are pictured with the Porthcawl Committee supporters and Mayor.

All at Kidney Wales are delighted that Mark Schofield has just received a kidney transplant.Roy J Thomas said" The Porthcawl Walkers are lead with a great deal of passion. Mary and Jean are special people and we are pleased that the people of Porthcawl value them as we do at Kidney Wales Foundation".

CARDIFF WALK FOR LIFE 2008 IN THE BAY SUNSHINE AS HUNDREDS TURN OUT

Cardiff Walk set off from St David's Hotel & Spa with leading politicans including Member of Parliament Julie Morgan and her grandson, Jenny Randerson AM who has been walking for years for KW ,Lord Mayor of Cardiff , Cllr Freda Salway a great supporter and Welsh celebrities with patients, medical professionals and families. The four mile walk was undertaken with style and was enjoyed with face painting and fun.

WEST IS BEST IN PONTARDDULAIS

Pontarddulais's Kidney Wales Walk for Life. Photograph shows Mr David Evans, owner of Pontarddulais Garden Centre presenting Town Mayor Cllr. Gail Bateman with a cheque.

We thank the Walkers and especially Mr Aneurin John Clerk to Pontarddulais Town Council.

Remember we welcome all of you to send in photos to chris@kidneywales.com

WALKS ACROSS WALES TAKING PLACE TODAY AS THOUSANDS TURN OUT

Kidney Wales are delighted with the support for all the Walks in Wales today.

The Lord Mayor of Cardiff started the Cardiff Walk in the Bay with leading politicians and celebrities.

Chair of Trustees Raj Aggarwal OBE of Kidney Wales Foundation said " The day has been great with hundreds turning out for us to support our cause and thousands across Wales. We appreciate the great effort made and the energy in supporting us"

Please send in pictures to Noel@kidneywales.com or call the Office with your successful stories of today.

1 DAY TO GO WALK FOR LIFE TOMORROW

ONLY ONE DAY TO GO FOR ALL THE WALKS IN WALES SEE LIST OF WALKS BELOW.WE APPRECIATE ALL YOU SUPPORT

Pictured is Connor Owen at the Children's Kidney Unit University Wales Hospital who will walk in Cardiff Bay at 11am tomorrow. Join Connor and register at 10 30am. ST DAVID'S HOTEL & SPA, CARDIFF BAY or walk at your local Walk and join the celebrities where you are. Dwayne Peel in Ammanford and Grand Slam star Alun Wyn Jones in Swansea.

COLIN JACKSON THE AMBASSADOR

Colin Jackson steps out as an ambassador by Madeleine Brindley, Western Mail

World champion athlete Colin Jackson has been named as this year’s Walk for Life Ambassador.

The former 110m hurdler met patients at Cardiff’s Children’s Kidney Unit to launch this year’s fundraising event, which is organised by the Kidney Wales Foundation (KWF).

Last year fundraisers across Wales organised 32 walks raising £80,000 to help support kidney services at the University Hospital of Wales. A further £30,000 has been donated by the charity to the kidney unit to fund specialist staff to help children with kidney failure, as well as game stations, TVs and educational toys.

This year the charity hopes to raise £100,000 and more than 30 walks have already been organised throughout Wales.

Jackson said, “Meeting the children at the University Hospital of Wales made me realise just how important the Kidney Wales Foundation’s work is in Wales.

“Kidney Wales raises vital funds that help transform hundreds of lives every year. But this is only through the support and generosity of fundraisers and supporters.

“That is why the support of the people of Wales is so important and why I’m very proud and honoured to be the ambassador for such a worthy cause as the Walk for Life.”

KWF chairman Roy J Thomas, added, “Colin’s support will help raise awareness of the fact there are hundreds of people across Wales affected by kidney failure and many more that are at risk because of the prevalence of conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can cause kidney damage.”

Connor Owen and parents Meredydd and Michelle

Dads Gift Of Life To Miracle Boy (from South Wales Argus) click for story

Parents Michelle and Meredydd raised more than £1,000 last year on the Kidney Wales Foundation's Walk For Life and aim to do the same again on March 30, along with thousands of other fundraisers from across Wales.

"We're massive fans of the Kidney Wales Foundation and this is a chance to give something back because without dialysis costing thousands of pounds, Connor wouldn't be here," said Mrs Owen.

2 DAYS TO GO TO WALK FOR LIFE WALES

We are delighted with the support across Wales for this year and committed support from various well known people in public life in Ammanford – British Lions and Wales Dwayne Peel ; in Swansea – Wales Grand Slam hero Alun Wyn Jones ; in Newport – Tony Wright from Real Radio DJ ;in Pontypridd – James Fox ;in Cardiff – comedian Rhod Gilbert, Gary Lockett, Alex Jones, Matthew Johnson, Cardiff Blues- Wales wing Jamie Roberts Ricie Rees,Mark Roberts, Jenny Randerson AM, Julie Morgan MP, Kevin Brennan MP for Cardiff West and the Lord Mayor of Cardiff in Gorseinon – Leighton James . Huw Irranca -Davies MP walked in Aberdare for us Mark Isherwood AM in Gwaenysgor.

4 DAYS TO GO TO 2008 WALK FOR LIFE

The Pontypridd Walk for Life 2008 starts from Old Bridge Ponty Park and Taff Street and the Walkers go around twice.Time 11am start .Register at 10 30am

Organisers Patrick and Lorraine Flood whose daughter is featured with the Welsh rugby team at the Hospital and right with Katherine Jenkins. Zowiann had a kidney transplant in December 2007 telephone 01443 491 596

Llantrisant Walk being organised by Matthew Harris and begins at 11 30am at Pontyclun RFC. Contact Mathew 0785 5311171

Llantwit Fardre at 11am starts at the Parish Hall Church Village organised by Frank Heaton -telephone 01443 209779

WALK IN GWENT

Gwent Walks/Events
Abergavenny – Staff from Alun Griffiths’ Contractors will be walking up the Blorenge Mountain on April 6 to raise money for the charity.
Blackwood – Fundraisers have organised a two mile walk, which will begin at the Full Moon Roundabout at 2pm. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact organiser Jill Ramsey on 01443 835608.
Magor – Fundraisers from Magor and Undy have joined together to organise a five mile walk, which begins at 12noon in Magor Square. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact organiser Jason Davies on 07947 902505.
Newport – The Newport Walk will include walking over some of the city’s famous bridges and begins outside the Kingsway Shopping Centre at 10.30am. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact Maureen Hendon on 01633 855989.
Tredegar – Fundraisers will meet at 10.30am at Bedwellty Park before beginning the walk. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact organiser Dr. John Evans pm 01495 722352.
Usk – Fundraisers will meet at 10.30am at the Sessions House and walk along the town’s flood route. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact organiser Dave Rennels on 07855 679802.
Monmouth – Fundraisers will take part in a sponsored litter pick, which begins at 2pm (on March 29) at the Somerfield Car Park. All are welcome on the day. For more information contact organiser Anthea Dewhurst on 01600 772209.

5 Days to Go For 2008 WALK FOR LIFE

MEET THE TALENTED RHOD GILBERT AT CARDIFF WALK

Rhod Gilbert said: “I think the Walk for Life events are a great way of not only raising vital funds for the Kidney Wales Foundation, which helps so many patients across Wales, but also raising awareness of the fact hundreds of people are affected by kidney failure. That is why I’ll be doing my bit on March 30 by taking part in a walk and hope others do too.”

BBC NEWS | Wales | Kidney transplant patients go up

BBC NEWS | Wales | Kidney transplant patients go up Click

The number of people waiting for a kidney transplant in Wales has risen by more than 50% in the last six years, the Kidney Wales Foundation has said.
Its figures also show there were 431 people on the transplant waiting list at the end of 2007 but only 89 transplants were carried out last year.

The charity said the rise is due to increasing levels of diabetes, heart disease and an ageing population.

Donor dad gives son a new lease of life - icWales

Donor dad gives son a new lease of life - icWalesDonor dad gives son a new lease of life click
Mar 10 2008 by Madeleine Brindley, Western Mail

As their first son was born, Meredydd and Michelle Owen were advised to plan his funeral. But almost four years later, Connor is a thriving and energetic child after receiving the gift of life from his dad. As World Kidney Day approaches on Thursday, Health Editor Madeleine Brindley reports on meeting the young family

IF YOU ask three-year-old Connor Owen what’s in his tummy, he will proudly tell you that he has his own kidney.

Yet for most of his life Connor has lived without these vital organs, dependent on dialysis to keep his small body alive.

He has amazed his medical team, who had advised parents Meredydd and Michelle to plan his funeral, fearing he would only live for a few moments after birth.

But Connor has continued to defy his prognosis, and, after receiving his kidney from his father in December, now bounds around the family home, on the outskirts of Pontypool, with all the energy and enthusiasm of any other child of his age. A blue teddy, originally bought for his funeral, has become one of Connor’s favourites, accompanying him throughout his treatment.

Colin Jackson steps out as an ambassador - icWales

Colin Jackson steps out as an ambassador - icWales
click

Colin Jackson steps out as an ambassador

Mar 10 2008 by Madeleine Brindley, Western Mail

World champion athlete Colin Jackson has been named as this year’s Walk for Life Ambassador.

The former 110m hurdler met patients at Cardiff’s Children’s Kidney Unit to launch this year’s fundraising event, which is organised by the Kidney Wales Foundation (KWF).

Last year fundraisers across Wales organised 32 walks raising £80,000 to help support kidney services at the University Hospital of Wales. A further £30,000 has been donated by the charity to the kidney unit to fund specialist staff to help children with kidney failure, as well as game stations, TVs and educational toys.

COLIN JACKSON AND FRIENDS AT CHILDREN'S KIDNEY UNIT TO LAUNCH WALK FOR LIFE 2008 FOR KW

COLIN JACKSON ANNOUNCED AS WALK FOR LIFE AMBASSADOR


Welsh sport legend Colin Jackson is this year’s Walk for Life Ambassador following in the footsteps of Sian Lloyd and Jonah Lomu.


The former 110m hurdle world champion met patients at Cardiff’s Children’s Kidney Unit as part of a special launch for this year’s fundraising event, which is organised by the Kidney Wales Foundation.


Last year fundraisers across Wales organised 32 walks raising a record-breaking £80,000 to help support vital kidney services at the University Hospital for Wales.


Since then more than £30,000 has been donated by the charity to the Children’s Kidney Unit to fund specialist staff to help children affected by kidney failure, as well as game stations, TVs and educational toys. The Institute of Nephrology has also received funding to help support its research programme based at the hospital.


This year the charity hopes to raise £100,000 and already more than 30 walks have been organised by volunteers throughout Wales from Almwch in North Wales to Barry in the south. Nearly all the walks will take place on March 30, including one in Cardiff Bay.


Colin, who won two gold world championship medals and Olympic silver, is urging people across Wales to don their trainers on March 30 and take part in their local Walk for Life to help raise money for the charity.


“Meeting the children at the University Hospital for Wales made me realise just how important the Kidney Wales Foundation’s work is in Wales,” said Colin.


“Kidney Wales raises vital funds that help transform hundreds of lives every year. But this is only through the support and generosity of fundraisers and supporters. That is why the support of the people of Wales is so important and why I’m very proud and honoured to be the Ambassador for such a worthy cause as the Walk for Life.


“There are more than 30 walks talking place throughout Wales so there’s lots of opportunities for people to take part. And if there isn’t one near you then why not organise a walk yourself? It’s easy to do and a great way of helping raise money for the Kidney Wales Foundation.


“You don’t need to be super fit to take part in the walks – they’re open to everyone and you can even turn up on the day to take part and send a message of hope and support to kidney patients throughout Wales. Please, do your bit as you really will be making a difference.”


Roy J. Thomas, Chairman of the Kidney Wales Foundation, said: “We are delighted that Colin Jackson has kindly agreed to be this year’s Walk for Life Ambassador.


“His support will help raise awareness of the fact there are hundreds of people across Wales affected by kidney failure and many more that are at risk because of the prevalence of conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can cause kidney damage.


“Our Walk for Life events raise important funds to help families and we would like to thank all those who have organised a walk in their community. Their hard work and support is greatly appreciated.”


Dr. Judith van der Voort, Consultant Nephrologist at Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust said: “I’m delighted Colin Jackson could meet some of our patients here at the University Hospital of Wales and see how the Kidney Wales Foundation is helping us make a difference.”


To find out where your nearest Walk for Life is or for information on how to organise one please contact the Kidney Wales Foundation team on 029 2034 3940.

WALK FOR LIFE IN PONTY - OLD FRIENDS KATHERINE AND ZOWIANN MEET UP TO CATCH UP ON THE NEWS

PONTYPRIDD

At Katherine's Book launch today in Cardiff old friends Zowiann and Katherine caught up on the news of Zowiann's kidney transplant in December 2007.Zowiann told Katherine about the Ponty Walk for Life.

The Pontypridd Walk for Life is at 11 am Ponty Museum Berw Road Pontypridd

Ring Patrick or Lorraine Flood 01443 491 596

Walk for Life 2008 - Kidney Wales Foundation

KW News - Walk for Life - Kidney Wales Foundation

Kidney Wales is setting off its Walk for Life campaign.
Sunday March 30th 2008 will see thousands of people come together for a good cause.

The Walk for Life is open to all of any ability and you can either join a Walk for Life near you or hold your very own.

In 2007 we raised £80,000, our target for 2008 of £100,000 with your support we can make a difference.

Keen walker Sian Lloyd patron of the Walk in 2007 said "The Walk for Life is an important fundraising event that benefits so many, communities, towns and villages come together in one big day of fundraising. All the monies raised from this event is invested into patient care and wellbeing, with your support we make can make a difference."

Interested or have any questions contact Chris Connell (029) 2034 3940 or email chris@kidneywales.com

Tredegar

KIDNEY WALES FOUNDATION - WALK FOR LIFE


Last year Tredegar Town Council showed its support to the Kidney Wales Foundation charity by organising a Walk for Life in Tredegar.

The Council raised valuable funds and we are hoping the Council will do so in 2008.

AMLWCH 2007

Along with Ynys Môn Assembly Member Ieuan Wyn Jones, Dylan Rees took part in the Kidney Wales Foundation Walk for Life in Amlwch in 2007.

The sponsored walk over Parys Mountain, organised by Amlwch Town Council, was one of over 40 walks taking place across Wales as part of Kidney Wales Foundation's 2007 Walk for Life Campaign.

Skater’s mum is walking for Kidney charity - icWales

Skater’s mum is walking for Kidney charity - icWales

Skater’s mum is walking for Kidney charity
Feb 16 2008 by Peter Collins, South Wales Echo

THE mother of champion skater Richard Taylor, who died after an accident near his Barry home in 2004, is organising a ‘walk for life’ in Barry.

Gaynor Taylor, whose husband John died two years later, has urged people to join the walk in aid of Kidney Wales Foundation.

She said: “When Richard died so tragically in 2004 his organs were donated and Kidney Wales played a big part in setting up the Organ Donor Card and then helped promote the Organ Donor Register.

“As a result, the family decided to support Kidney Wales. My husband, John and I had organised the Barry Walk for March 19, 2006, but sadly John had a heart attack that morning and died before the walk took place.

“The walk went ahead with family members knowing that John had died but they bravely kept up everyone’s spirits.

“I intend to organise the Kidney Wales Walk for Life as a tribute to my husband.”

This year, the Barry Walk is on Sunday, March 30 starting at 11am from Morrisons supermarket car park. It will go to the Knap and back, a distance of about 4.5 miles.

To take part contact Gaynor on 01446 744834, 07798936944, or e-mail gaynor.taylor1@btinternet.com for a sponsor form.

All participants will receive a certificate on completion of the walk.