Our supporters are amazing by Marc Stowell - Director of Fundraising
As I now approach my first anniversary of working at Kidney Research UK, I’m genuinely humbled by the lengths that all our supporters go to as, together, we strive towards better treatments and ultimately find a cure for kidney disease.
I’m personally committed to thanking all our supporters for every generous contribution they individually make. Thank you.
Every mile walked, marathon run, mountain climbed, road cycled or channel swum (yes, a team of swimmers swam the English Channel for us), makes a real difference to our work, and every contribution is invaluable. The commitment people make to raise funds for us is immense – not only for their own personal challenge, but also in the support of their friends and family who cheer and encourage the whole way.Lots of people give their time organising coffee mornings, golf days, football matches and supermarket collections throughout the country – raising awareness as well as funds. In our shops, dedicated teams of volunteers help resell the pre-loved items people have donated.
There are thousands of people who give us a regular gift every month through their bank or salary – our ‘quiet’ supporters who often don’t want any recognition or acknowledgement. Those people who send us a gift on their kidney-versary, in lieu of presents or on an anniversary.
New Year is a time when we think about our aspirations for the year to come, and some people make resolutions. For me, it’s a perfect springboard to commit to do more in our quest to cure kidney disease. Over the last year we’ve achieved a lot, but it’s still not enough.
I really do think all our supporters are amazing.
Although you won’t get me jumping out of a plane or cycling to John O’Groats, I will be walking a few more miles this year, leaning on friends and family, pulling in favours and encouraging my corporate friends to do their bit and champion Kidney Research UK. These are the things I can do to make a difference and contribute to creating a world without kidney disease.
Will you join me and do your bit? There are so many way you can join in and be part of #TEAMKIDNEY.
Sign up for Race for Research (walk, run or cycle) or Give it Up, join us at one of our Bridges Walks or get your work colleagues or school friends involved in fundraising. Our Fright for Good campaign will be back in October. Or you may wish to do a personal challenge of your own. We can give you suggestions, but I find your ideas are always best. Just let us know what you’re doing and we’ll do what we can to help you.
We are extremely grateful for every gift to Kidney Research UK. Every gift is thoughtful, personal and meaningful and really does make a huge difference. For all the support you kindly gave us in 2017 and for all your support you may give in 2018, thank you.
Finally, I can’t miss this opportunity to extend welcoming ‘Beanie’ to #TEAMKIDNEY. Beanie has already travelled the breadth of the country in support of our events, and his travel schedule is beginning to fill up for this year. I know he loves selfies so look out for him at our Bridges Walk in London, Newcastle and Glasgow and at the Virgin Money London Marathon 2018.
