Transplant man’s gratitude for new lease of life

A Galway electrician and father-of-one is embracing his new lease of life after his brother donated one of his kidneys – and now his family want to show their appreciation by raising funds for the charity that helped them through their darkest days.

Liam Kenny (31) from Laurencetown had a serious kidney condition that saw him require dialysis eight hours a day, three days a week prior to his operation – a reality that was impacting on his life and work.

But since he received a kidney from his 33-year-old brother James, he hasn’t looked back – and in gratitude the family has now organised a special day on Saturday, October 1, with the highlight a charity barn dance in the village.

It was back in 2014 when Liam Kenny, who works with an electrician, was diagnosed with chronic kidney reflux, resulting in only one functioning kidney at 15%. Liam’s quality of life deteriorated as he fought this disease.

This led to Liam receiving dialysis eight hours a day, three days a week and his ability to work was impacted.

Liam’s family volunteered to be tested for compatibility for a transplant – and fortunately, his older brother James, who is employed in an abattoir, proved a match.

In October 2017, after a long and emotional journey, Liam and James attended Beaumont Hospital to undergo a mammoth surgery.

Although this surgery was a success, there was always a possibility that Liam’s body could reject the transplant.

During this time, the Irish Kidney Association supported the entire family to ensure they were close to the lads by providing free on-site accommodation.

This, his sister Megan Kenny says, was pivotal in supporting their family through the surgery’s worry, stress and financial strain.

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