The LifeCycle Malta Foundation marked the conclusion of its year-long fundraising campaign, culminating in the LifeCycle challenge, which successfully raised €145,000 in 2024. The event held at the Hilltop Gardens on 15 January brought together participants of the LifeCycle Challenge, sponsors, donors and champions of the cause dedicated to raising funds for renal health.
Adding to the excitement, during the special evening, the Foundation revealed the destination for the 2025 LifeCycle Challenge: Jordan and Saudi Arabia. This cycling feat from Petra to Jeddah promises to push participants' limits while also marking the expansion of the LifeCycle Challenge to its 56th and 57th countries, adding new chapters to its inspiring journey.
The event served as a tribute to the dedication of everyone who contributed to last year's challenge from Botswana to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, with the presentation of certificates to all cyclists and members of the back-up team. Pierre Vella, who now counts four LifeCycle challenges under his belt, was presented with the Jack Bowen award, which is given to the cyclist who best embodied the spirit of the challenge as well as showing exceptional team spirit and performance.
founder and chairman Alan Curry commented: "The announcement of the final sum raised and the destination for our next challenge reflects the incredible momentum and collective commitment that have been driving the Foundation's mission forward since 1999. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to our efforts in countless roles, from donors and participants to volunteers, supporters and the media. Their dedication makes a real and lasting difference in the lives of kidney patients, offering them hope and support in their ongoing struggle."
As part of the special evening, Prof. Edith Said, from the University of Malta's Department of Anatomy, addressed attendees, highlighting the groundbreaking kidney research funded by the LifeCycle Malta Foundation. In collaboration with the University of Malta's Research Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT) since 2014, the Foundation has funded studies like the 2020-2024 project on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). Prof. Said shared insights from this research, which examines the prevalence and genetic causes of ADPKD in Malta. The study has identified a unique genetic makeup among Maltese patients, enabling early diagnosis through genetic testing before symptoms appear.
Having raised close to €4m since its inception, the LifeCycle (Malta) Foundation also supports Mater Dei Hospital's Renal Unit in the running of the
Focussing on the road ahead and with the new destination revealed, the LifeCycle Malta Foundation invites adventurers, cyclists and supporters to be part of this inspiring mission. Enrolment for the 2025 LifeCycle Challenge is now open, offering participants the chance to test their limits, experience the adventure of a lifetime, and make a tangible impact in the fight against renal disease.
The 2024 LifeCycle Challenge was supported by Nescafé as the main sponsor, together with Hili Ventures, Smart Technologies Limited, Laferla, JPA, GasanMamo Insurance, APS Bank, Agora Estates plc, Valletta Waterfront and Crane Currency, among others.
For more information, one can visit https://lifecyclefoundation.com or https://www.facebook.com/LifeCycleChallenge