The 10th edition of the annual Lifecycle Challenge, in aid of renal patients, was launched yesterday – World Kidney Day – at a press conference attended by President Emeritus Professor Guido de Marco.
The Lifecycle Challenge, which is being sponsored by HSBC Life Insurance for the second year running, will take place from 14 to 25 August, and will see the expedition venture outside Europe for the first time. Titled ‘Strait to Africa’, the 2,200 kilometre trek will kick off in Lourdes and travel across France and Spain, before crossing the Strait of Gibraltar into Morocco and concluding in front of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
Chairman and event organiser Alan Curry described the Lifecycle Challenge as “an established part of the sporting calendar”, that has succeeded in raising public awareness towards the plight of individuals suffering from renal disease, as well as improving their quality of life by raising money used to purchase new medical equipment.
Tony Bugeja, head nurse of the Renal Unit, explained how the focus of this year’s fundraising will be to organise a pilgrimage for all interested patients (accompanied by a Maltese renal team) to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes. He pointed out the difficulties in finding dialysis centres abroad, and argued that this pilgrimage will provide patients with a unique opportunity to spend a period of time overseas.
Richard Jones, speaking on behalf of HSBC Life Insurance, said that training for the event will kick off on 13 April at Ta’ Qali, where a Family Health and Fun Day – aimed increasing the general public’s participation in the event – will be held.
Guest of Honour, President Emeritus Professor Guido de Marco spoke of his personal experience as a renal patient.
Describing himself as one of the “lucky survivors” who has benefited from the dialysis equipment available at the Renal Unit, Prof. de Marco spoke of his difficulties as a frequent traveller who requires regular dialysis treatment.
He praised the efforts of Lifecycle in raising the profile of renal disease over the past decade, and commended the organisation for their work in providing a “proper institution for people who want to go abroad and need a renal unit available”.
Individuals interested in taking part in this year’s Lifecycle Challenge may download an application form (available from Sunday 16 March) from the organisation’s website, www.lifecyclechallenge.com, or contact Alan Curry on alan.curry@ lifecyclechallenge.com.
Donations may be made by SMS, e2.33 (Lm1) on 5061 7378; e6.99 (Lm3) on 5061 8927; and e11.65(Lm5) on 5061 9219, by cheque or postal order may be sent to Life Cycle Organisation, c/o Renal Unit, Mater Dei Hospital, Malta, or by direct transfer to HSBC (Malta) Account 061 198 792 050 or Bank of Valletta Account 148 14 52 1017.