John Paul, a 42 year old double transplant recipient from Gneeveguilla in Co. Kerry, is taking part in the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle with his wife Edel and brother Barry, who donated a kidney to him. John Paul’s kidney function declined due to the long-term affects of living with diabetes sinc he was a child. His brother, Barry, made the selfless decision to donate a kidney to him in 2018 after finding out he was a match. John Paul later received a pancreas transplant in 2020. To mark John Paul’s improved quality of life and the hope that was brought to the Lehane family, the trio are cycling for the Irish Kidney Association. Give to John Paul’s Fundraiser

I’m looking forward to taking part in the cycle with two very important people in my life. The charity has played an essential role in helping patients and families like ours, and your support will help continue this important work. The free accommodation at its Support Centre beside Beaumont Hospital allowed my family and me to stay close throughout the rigorous screening process, surgeries, and recovery, which made a huge difference. A big thank you as well to my colleagues at Newmarket Motors for their support and encouragement. A special thanks to my brother Barry for his generous kidney donation, and to my wife Edel for being my rock throughout this journey.

– John Paul 

 

I was happy to donate my kidney to my brother. It’s something anyone would do if they could. Knowing that my decision could make a difference for John Paul made it an easy choice. I’m also grateful to my wife Jenny, who supported my decision every step of the way, taking care of our three kids while I travelled back and forth for the screenings, my kidney donation operation, and recovery. It’s been a team effort, and I’m glad to see John Paul doing so well. It’s nice to come home to Kerry and take part in the iconic cycle for the first time, especially with John Paul now well enough to join in, leaving his poor health behind. I’m proud that I will have both him and Edel cycling alongside me.

– Barry

 

Working in palliative care, I’ve seen how life’s journey can mirror the ups and downs of health struggles. Participating in the 170 kilometres Ring of Kerry cycle with my husband and brother-in-law Barry will probably be just like that, a long journey with its challenges, but with a light at the end, a sense of hope and achievement. I’m so grateful that John Paul is now well enough to take part, and to be able share this experience with both him and his brother. We want to thank the large community of friends and family who have provided invaluable support. We are looking forward to the amazing scenery and craic during the Ring of Kerry challenge.

– Edel

Give to John Paul’s Fundraiser