Head of Risk Management Advisory Services in the South Eastern Trust, Valerie Walker and her husband Edwin recently laced up their running shoes to take on the Great North Run Half Marathon Challenge, raising an incredible £1,404 for the Ulster Hospital Renal Unit.
The funds raised will be used to enhance patient comfort and wellbeing within the unit, making a difference to those receiving dialysis and renal care.
Explaining why they chose to dedicate their efforts to the Renal Unit, Valerie said, “Rather than raising money for a large national charity, we wanted to do something closer to home, something that would directly benefit the Trust I work for.
“We have renal disease in our family, there is a genetic link. Edwin’s mum had it and sadly passed away after years on dialysis in England. Both of Edwin’s sisters also have renal disease, one has recently had a very successful transplant, which is wonderful news. We have cousins in the family affected by it too. Our daughter also works in the unit, so it really means a lot to us.”
Edwin added his appreciation for everyone who supported their fundraising efforts, saying “We would like to thank everyone who donated to this wonderful cause and to thank all the renal staff for the amazing work they do helping patients every day. The kindness and support shown to us in raising this amount has been really humbling.”
Expressing thanks on behalf of the Renal Unit, Consultant Nephrologist, Dr John Smyth, added, “We are very grateful to Edwin and Valerie for choosing the Renal Unit for this fantastic contribution. This donation will help us to improve our facilities in order to continue to provide our patients with the best care possible. “