Emma’s marathon challenge for the West Riding Kidney Association

Emma, from Leeds, will be running the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on Sunday 12^th May to raise funds for a charity very close to her heart, the West Riding Kidney Association.

This a huge milestone for Emma, not only will she be turning forty this year, but this will be her very first marathon challenge.

“In 2024 I turn 40, how to celebrate…I know, I’ll run my first-ever Marathon!!! 

“Not only will completing this HUGE challenge be a real milestone for me (on a milestone birthday year), but I’ll also be raising much-needed funds for a charity very close to my heart, the West Riding Kidney Patients Association.

“Kidney disease is known as an invisible disability as there are limited to no outward signs of illness, however in many cases it can significantly impair the normal activities of daily living.

“My Mum has struggled with kidney disease for much of her life, spending years on various forms of dialysis, endless hospital tests and check-ups, as well as going through two lifesaving kidney transplants. 

“Despite this, my Mum is by far the strongest person I know, she keeps going through everything this illness throws at her and she’s a constant inspiration to me. I hope by running this marathon I can show my Mum how strong I can be thanks to her, as well as raise not only funds but also awareness of this invisible disability.

“The objectives of the WRKPA are the relief of sickness and distress among kidney patients, especially those treated by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, including providing support and advice to their families and carers. They support the donation of organs for transplantation, as well as funding research into kidney diseases.”

Good luck Emma, we can’t wait to see you cross the finish line!

You can support Emma on her fundraising journey by clicking here

Entries are still open for the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. To sign up and find out more click here