Kidney transplant woman’s thanks
A Hamilton woman who received a kidney transplant four years ago has paid special tribute to her mum - who also received a transplant.
Kirstine Bonner took part in the British Transplant Games, hosted by North Lanarkshire last week.
The 47-year-old received a transplant in May 2013 after being diagnosed with kidney disease.
Her sister, Elaine Zanjani, who was also involved with the British Transplant Games, went through an operation for the same condition the following year.
Sadly, the sisters’mum, Joan Cubis, passed away in 1994, having suffered the hereditary condition and received a kidney transplant herself.
The family’s experience encouraged Kirstine to take part in the Games, which took place in venues all over North Lanarkshire from July 27 to 30.
As well as a tribute to her mum, Kirstine says she took part as a thank you to her donor.
She said:“i took part in memory of my mum, and in tribute to my donor. If it wasn’t for my donor, I wouldn’t have been able to do it - I’ll be forever thankful.
“I took part in the 5k donor run and the 10-pin bowling, it was a really good experience.
“The whole event was just fantastic from start to finish, I didn’t want it to end. I’ve certainly got memories I’ll treasure forever.
“The opening and closing ceremonies were amazing, and it was very humbling to be a part of it.
“There were a lot of kids taking part and some of them had three and four medals around their necks, it was so lovely to see. Everyone who took part is an absolute inspiration.”
The Games came to an end on Sunday, with a spectacular closing ceremony being held at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility.
Anyone wishing to sign up for organ donation can find out more by visiting www.organdonation.nhs.uk