Page 4 - IKA_SUPPORT_WINTER_2016_WEB_Layout 1

A Christmas Message

from
The National Chairman

t Is hard to believe that Christmas is almost here – where did this
year go? As we look forward, once again to the Christmas season, I
Iwould like to thank everyone who has helped and supported the
Irish Kidney Association over the past year. It has been a busy year
with many and varied fundraising activities. We are truly thankful
to the 25 branches of the Association, volunteers and supporters
for their dedication and commitment.
Looking back over 2016 as National Honorary Chairperson,
I have been privileged and honoured to represent the
Association at various events and meetings throughout the
year. A personal highlight for me was witnessing the amazing
achievements of Team Ireland at the European Dialysis and
Transplant Games. I would also like to extend my
congratulations to Ron Grainger who has been chosen as the
World Transplant Games Federation Ambassador ahead of the
Games next year in Malaga.
This year, Vivienne Traynor from RTE, kindly agreed to act as
an Ambassador for our Organ Donor Awareness Campaigns.
Through her own personal connection with organ donation,
Vivienne was more than willing to take part in this year’s campaign.
We sincerely appreciate your participation and thank you for taking time
from your busy schedule to do so.
I would like to thank each and every staff member for your continued commitment and
hard work. Your excellent care and dedication ensures the smooth running of the
Association.
Christmas is a time when families come together and we encourage families to take this
opportunity to talk to each other about organ donation. The generosity of the donor families
who have given so many the ‘Gift of Life’ will be in our thoughts over the Christmas period.
I will be lighting a candle in memory of these donors and encourage you all to do the same.
Finally I would like to thank my fellow Board members and Branch Officers for their
continued support throughout the year.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, may I wish you all a happy Christmas and a prosperous
New Year. VALERIE BRADY

2017 Organ Donor Awareness Week
will take place from APRIL 1ST8TH

4 IKA S UPPORT WINTER 2016