Walk for life raises over £4000 (From Western Telegraph)

Walk for life raises over £4000

12:19pm Monday 31st March 2008

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Around 250 people in Fishguard showed their support for the Kidney Wales Foundation by taking part in the Walk for Life yesterday (Sunday).

The walk was organised by local girl 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."

Allison hopes that her experience will get others to think seriously about organ donation.

"Hopefully my story can inspire lots of people to help others and join the organ donor register," she said. "It is vitally important to get every one to think about their wishes and tell their loved ones about them"

Log on later to see a video of the walk

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