Bolton firm raise £2,600+ for Kidney Research UK in huge and inspiring trek

Their journey, filled with determination, ice cream pit stops, and personal connections to the cause, helped support life-changing research for kidney disease.

Kidney Research UK

In a heartwarming display of determination and community spirit, AO employees embarked on a challenging 28km trek from their Bolton headquarters to the AO Arena in Manchester, raising an impressive £2,655 for Kidney Research UK.

The nine members of the company’s acquisition team took on this gruelling journey during one of AO’s biannual ‘Make a Difference’ days, where employees have the opportunity to give back to the community or support charitable causes.

Battling scorching temperatures along the way, the team braved the elements and made a memorable pit stop for ice cream to stay refreshed and energised.

Upon their triumphant arrival at the AO Arena, they were each greeted with a well-deserved glass of champagne from the AO Electric Lounge.

From Bolton to the AO Arena

For Affiliate Manager Graham Murray, the chosen charity, Kidney Research UK, holds a special place in his heart.

Having spent years on dialysis, Graham received the ultimate gift from his mother two years ago when she selflessly donated one of her kidneys, allowing him to undergo a successful transplant.

Since then, he has experienced tremendous support from Kidney Research UK, which made him even more thrilled to be part of the charity trek.

“I was made up when the rest of the team eagerly backed Kidney Research UK as the chosen charity for our sponsored walk,” Graham shared.

“Having spent two years on dialysis before my transplant, I now rely on immunosuppression to keep my transplanted kidney healthy.

“Being able to raise such a substantial amount for Kidney Research UK made the journey more than worthwhile.”

The AO Smile Foundation

The AO Smile Foundation, AO’s charitable arm, proved to be a significant driving force behind the fundraising efforts.

Their generous boost of £885 pushed the total funds raised beyond the initial target of £1,500, allowing the team to surpass expectations and make an even greater impact.

Ronan-Peate, the Community and Events Manager at Kidney Research UK, expressed gratitude for the team’s incredible determination and the cause they chose to support.

“It is always fantastic to witness co-workers coming together to take on a great challenge and raise money for charity, especially when it’s one that’s so close to their colleague’s heart,” he stated.

“The AO employees have achieved something truly amazing, surpassing their initial target by far.

“We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering support and generosity.”

Improving Kidney Treatments in the UK

The funds raised will be directed towards supporting research that aims to improve treatments for kidney disease, providing hope for a future where individuals like Graham can lead healthier lives.

Kidney Research UK’s mission to transform treatments and find solutions to kidney disease continues to be fuelled by the unwavering dedication of individuals and companies like AO.

What an amazing example of community spirit, banding together for an employee.

Hopefully it will inspire others to join the fight against kidney disease and contribute to a world where kidney patients can live life to the fullest.