Tenby’s Adam Hughes continued his epic fundraising challenge this month for charity by completing the Houston Marathon in Texas, USA, in a time of 3 hours 42 minutes - to mark the 10th year anniversary of his life saving kidney transplant.
The latest in a series of physical challenges including - the Welsh Three Peaks, Ben Nevis and dozens of 10k and half marathon events, the first marathon of the fundraiser came with the added test of a winter storm warning, with a temperature on the 7am start line of -7c and strong gusting winds throughout.
October 2024 saw Adam commemorating 10 years since he received the ‘gift of life’ of a kidney transplant, and during this time he has always retained his passion for sport and has kept active in football and running.
So much so, that last September, he was called up to the Wales squad that took part in the inaugural Transplant Football World Cup in Cervia, Italy.
He said at the time on a proud moment in representing his country: “You sort of think the chance to pull on an official Wales shirt and compete at a World Cup is gone, but to have this opportunity is incredible and a testament to the power of organ donation to which we all owe our lives!
10 years on from his life-saving kidney transplant, Adam is using this milestone to fundraise for Kidney Wales and The Wales Transplant Football Team and has remained determined to complete the challenges and support the charities despite being faced with multiple health problems over the last year.
Speaking before the Houston marathon, which took place on January 19, Adam said: “It’s been a far from vintage year health-wise and the training has been hard mentally and physically, but with the amazing support of family and friends as well as the medical team in the Renal Unit at Morriston Hospital, I remain determined to keep going and raise as much money as possible for two causes that help many other people who need, and have had, transplants in Wales.
“Without the transplant I simply wouldn't be here. It has enabled me to move and start my career, travel to multiple countries around the world, play sport again, and most importantly get married to Sabrina and make loads of amazing memories with family and friends.”
Adam still has the Newport Marathon and the London Marathon to look forward to in 2025 and is delighted to have raised £1,400 towards his £5,000 target so far.
“The support I’ve received from so many people has been overwhelming, not only through donations but through messages of encouragement. I’m so grateful to everyone so far, hopefully we can continue and hit the target before London in April,” he added.
Adam has paid all his own expenses, and every penny pledged in sponsorship will go directly to the charities.
You can donate to the cause at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/adam-hughes-1724252169373?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL