Kevin Kilbride, from Co. Longford, in running the Dublin Marathon in memory of his father who passed away in 2024. Kevin's father, Joe, was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in the early 1990s, which led to a gradual decline in his kidney function. In 2009, Joe started dialysis and was placed on the transplant list. His life was changed in 2011 when he received a life-saving kidney transplant. Inspired by his father's journey and the invaluable support provided by the Irish Kidney Association, Kevin is now participating in the Dublin Marathon to fundraise for the IKA, which played a crucial role in supporting his family during Joe's treatment providing essential information and services, and helping to arrange dialysis for Joe when on holiday.
My father, Joe Kilbride, was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that targeted his kidneys in the early 1990s. He was placed on strong medication to suppress his immune system and slow down the kidney damage, but he was told that this would eventually lead to complete kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
Over the following years, my dad's kidney function gradually declined, and in 2009, he began kidney dialysis and was placed on the transplant list. After just under two years on dialysis, he received a call for a transplant in 2011. The surgery was a tremendous success and gave my dad a completely new lease of life.
Throughout this time, the Irish Kidney Association was a great support to my dad, providing essential information, services, and helping to arrange dialysis at alternative locations during holidays.
Sadly, my dad passed away in April 2024 from prostate cancer. However, thanks to the IKA's efforts in campaigning for organ donation, and the successful transplant in 2011, my dad was able to enjoy many more years of life that he most certainly wouldn’t have had without it.
