Liverpool to host its first-ever Bridges Walk for kidney disease
Hundreds of kidney patients, families and supporters are preparing to take part in the first ever Kidney Research UK Liverpool Bridges Walk on Sunday 14 September, raising funds for vital research. Participants can choose between a 6.5-mile or 2.1-mile route, taking in the city’s most famous landmarks and waterfront views.
Christy’s story
Among those taking part will be 40-year-old Christy Millar, from Upton, who is currently receiving dialysis while she waits for a third kidney transplant.
Christy says: “I can’t wait to do the walk, it’s a great way to meet people each going through their own kidney journey and raise funds for a brilliant charity.”
Christy’s life was devastated when she suddenly became seriously unwell in 2006, just as she finished university. She spent three months in intensive care because of a burst appendix which had caused sepsis and kidney failure. This left her needing a strict routine of dialysis treatment for more than five years, either side of a failed transplant from her husband, Steve.
A transplant from a deceased donor gave Christy nearly a decade without the restrictions of dialysis, but this kidney began to fail last year. She is now once again receiving dialysis and is on the waiting list for another transplant.
Christy says: “My life is on hold again while I wait for that phone call - to let me know a kidney transplant is available. Dialysis can be very isolating and needing to be in hospital for treatment three days a week prevents me from doing a lot of things I enjoy. I’d love to be able to explore the world and travel again.
“I understand how significantly kidney patients are affected, and that’s why I’m joining the Liverpool Bridges Walk – to make a difference. I’ll be with my husband Steve, my dogs, and a few of my dialysis nurses on the day. I want to raise awareness, meet others going through similar challenges, and support life-changing research.”
Kidney research in Liverpool
Kidney disease currently affects more than seven million people in the UK – including around 500,000 people across Cheshire and Merseyside.
We’ve funded more than £1m of research at the University of Liverpool over the last ten years, as the city’s role at the forefront of kidney research continues to grow. Scientists in the city are working on projects that could transform patient care at every stage of treatment.
Sandra Currie, chief executive of Kidney Research UK, says: “This is the first time we’ve brought one of our Bridges walks to Liverpool, and we’re delighted to be here. Liverpool is home to some of the most innovative kidney research in the country, and this event will both celebrate that and help fund the next breakthroughs.
“We’re encouraging everyone – patients, families, clinicians and the wider community – to join us, walk together, and show their support to end kidney disease.”
Join Team Kidney
Join the renal community at the Liverpool Bridges Walks where you can raise awareness and fundraise for vital kidney research.
Every step you take will make a difference to people living with kidney disease.
