Dungiven brothers to host fundraiser to thank hospitals

On Saturday, August 26 a charity tractor/vintage car run and family fun day is being held in the Benedy Community Centre, 72 Corick Road, Dungiven and proceeds will be donated to the Kidney Transplant Ward, Belfast City Hospital and the Renal Unit Altnagelvin Hospital.

This fundraising event has been organised by brothers Joe and Paul O’Connor as they feel they owe them a debt of gratitude.

Joe had suffered from kidney disease for a number of years, his health had deteriorated because his kidneys were failing and had reached the point of needing dialysis.

Fortunately for Joe his brother Paul was an excellent match and with the support of his wife and children, he volunteered to donate a kidney to him. (He jokingly said he had a spare part that would fit).

The surgery was performed at Belfast City Hospital on 31 August 2016 and Paul got home from hospital 24 hours later, recovered well and was back at work within three months. Joe got home 72 hours later and the transplant was a success. It relieved Joe of the typical symptoms of kidney disease and set him back on the journey to good health. One year on, his health has improved dramatically.

The O’Connor brothers wish to thank the renal teams at both hospitals for the excellent care they received both pre and post-operative. Their dedication, skill and professionalism cannot be more highly commended.

We also take this opportunity to raise awareness of the need for organ donors.

A donated organ improves the quality of life for the recipient and ultimately saves lives.

Do come along to the event and help raise funds for the above mentioned Wards as the work they do is invaluable.

Hot Food, Refreshments, Ice Cream Van, Bouncy Castles, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling, Bar, Raffle, Live music from 3pm.

Tractor/Vintage Car Run registration from 12.00 noon and leaving Benedy Community Centre at 1.30pm sharp.

Everyone welcome.