19-year-old to run CDF 10K in memory of godfather
A 19-year-old student will be running the Brecon Carreg CDF 10K in support of Kidney Wales – a cause which is ‘very close to her heart’.
Sadie is taking on the challenge for the lead charity of the event which provided help and support to her godfather Martyn after he was diagnosed with kidney disease.
Sadie, who is currently pursuing her dream role as a Degree Apprentice with the NHS Shared Services Partnership while also studying for a Real Estate Degree at the University of South Wales, said Martyn was like a ‘father figure’ to her.
But tragically, despite years of treatment, he passed away from the condition.
That is why Sadie is now taking part in the event on Sunday 1 September in a bid to raise awareness and support for Kidney Wales.
She said: “My godfather, Martyn, whom I always saw as a father figure, was diagnosed with kidney disease. For over six years, he endured the gruelling routine of dialysis three times a week. Although dialysis is exhausting and challenging, it granted him the precious gift of time.
“Martyn was placed on the transplant list, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, he opted out due to the associated risks and his other medical conditions. Despite undergoing numerous tests two years before his passing, the complications from his age and health made a transplant inadvisable.”
Sadie said that witnessing everything Martyn was going through was ‘heart-wrenching’.
His treatment brought significant changes to his lifestyle and meant he was no longer able to work. However that’s where Kidney Wales stepped in, providing invaluable support and helping with financial aid for electrical equipment and grocery vouchers.
Sadie said: “Through Martyn’s experiences, I learned about the harsh realities of dialysis but also the hopeful stories of patients who received transplants and went on to lead healthy, happy lives, albeit knowingly not cured from the disease.
“I know Kidney Wales are a beacon of support for so many, offering assistance through various initiatives, including financial aid, educational webinars and funding life changing research.
“I am proud to be participating in the Brecon Carreg CDF 10K to honour my godfather Martyn’s memory, it will be a tribute to his life and a memorable way to support the cause that was so important to him.
“Taking part will be more than just a personal challenge for me – it is a way to give back to a charity that made a significant difference in Martyn’s life and to help others who are facing similar battles.”
