A kidney transplant patient from Gloucester is training to take on the London Marathon for the first time in a bid to raise awareness of kidney disease and raise funds for Kidney Research UK.  

Liam Ward, 31, was shocked to be diagnosed with IgA nephropathy, a type of kidney disease, in 2014 during a medical assessment to enter the army.

Having left behind a career in finance to pursue his army dreams, Liam was forced to confront a new future due to a disease that, as many kidney disease patients find, was yet to show many symptoms. 

Although his dream of serving was cut short, Liam has turned his experience into a mission to help others. After receiving a life-changing kidney transplant in May 2022, he has set his sights on completing the 26.2-mile London Marathon on Sunday 27th April. 

Reflecting on his journey, the one-time Crypt School pupil said: "I had no idea I was unwell before my medical assessment. I couldn’t join the army because my kidney function was declining.

“That was devastating, but in hindsight, it was a stroke of luck. If I hadn’t, I might have remained unaware of my kidneys problems until they suddenly failed.

“Kidney disease affects so many people in the UK, but I don’t think a lot of people realise how severe it can be.” 

After his diagnosis, Liam found work in the insurance industry while his health was closely monitored, requiring daily medication. Over the next few years after his diagnosis, Liam’s active lifestyle was being increasingly impacted by fatigue, developing gout and rashes as a result of his condition.

Eight years on from his diagnosis, he received a transformative call - a matching kidney was available.

"When I got the news, I burst into tears,” admitted Liam. “After the transplant, I felt like a completely different person.

“I felt amazing to have so much more energy. I was able to enjoy my wedding without constantly worrying.

“But there is still no cure. Transplants last around 20 years, and it’s likely I will need more than one in my lifetime. That’s why research is crucial." 

Liam has since embraced several sporting challenges to stay active and raise awareness.

His wife Katie – they got married in August last year – will be cheering him on at the London Marathon, something which Liam, who plays cricket for the England Transplant team, says is his biggest feat yet.

"I never used to like running, but I wanted to challenge myself,” he said. “A few years ago, I’d be out of breath just walking down the street - now I’m running 10K for fun.

“I’m training hard to reach the finish line, knowing the money raised could help transform lives. I’d love for research to find a cure or stabilise kidney function so fewer people need dialysis or transplants."  

Liam has not set himself a time target for the marathon – “I just want to get round,” he said – and he’ll certainly have plenty of support on the big day.

"We’re cheering Liam on as he takes on this monumental challenge,” said Lucy Sreeves, executive director at Kidney Research UK.

“His journey - from a life-changing diagnosis, through a transplant, to running his first marathon - is testament to his resilience and truly inspiring for us all.

“The funds raised by Liam and his supporters will help drive vital research to save lives and protect more families from the devastation caused by kidney disease." 

To support Liam’s fundraising for Kidney Research UK, visit https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/liam-ward.