Nicola, from Clonmel Co. Tipperary, is taking on the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle motivated by the impact organ donation had on the life of her husband’s brother-in-law, Mike. Mike has received two kidney transplants, one from a deceased donor over 30 years ago and the second from his goddaughter and niece, Katie, in December 2024. Nicola, joined by her friends in Clonmel Cycling Club, is raising funds for the Irish Kidney Association to give back to the charity that supported Mike and their family. Give to Nicola’s Fundraiser

It’s something that really hit home for our family.

 

Before his second transplant last Christmas, Mike spent over a year travelling back and forth to Cork University Hospital three times a week for life saving dialysis treatment and regularly used the free facilities at the IKA’s Support Centre located nearby. Mike’s health transformation through the gift of life he received from Katie was inspirational to everyone who witnessed his journey. Organ donation really does save and transform lives. Taking on this Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is my way of giving back to the Irish Kidney Association, and of helping support others going through the same health journey as Mike did. When I learned that the Irish Kidney Association was a Tier One main beneficiary charity of the iconic Ring of Kerry Cycle, I was determined to sign up and fundraise for the cause.

 

Cycling was a whole new world for me, and I haven’t looked back. The encouragement and camaraderie from everyone in Clonmel Cycling Club has been amazing.

 

I’m not out to set records. I’ll be thrilled just to complete the 170 km distance, knowing I’ve helped raise funds for the IKA and hopefully some organ donor awareness also.

 

Give to Nicola’s Fundraiser