Joe was diagnosed with Henoch-Schonlein Purpura when he was 10 years old, a disorder that causes small blood vessels in different parts of the body to become inflamed and bleed. At the age of 15, Joe’s kidneys failed and he started haemodialysis. Nine months later, he received a living related kidney donation from his mum. Now on his third kidney transplant, which was donated altruistically by a complete stranger, Joe wants to inspire kidney patients and raise vital funds for the National Kidney Federation’s patient support services.

The National Kidney Federation’s Best Foot Forward Challenge is a walking challenge that consists of 68,000 steps to represent the number of people in the UK being treated for kidney failure.

Joe believes that having a positive attitude is key in managing kidney disease and making it fit into his life: “I think the National Kidney Federation’s Best Foot Forward Challenge is a great way for kidney patients to come together and raise money for a fantastic cause, all whilst getting outside and getting some exercise, I really enjoyed it. I wanted to do something to help raise money, raise awareness and to help kidney patients like me.”

After a month of hard work and dedication, Joe undertook an impressive 273,255 steps and raised £183.

“Kidney failure and kidney disease are rubbish, but it doesn’t need to be the end of the world. I make kidney disease fit into my life, not the other way around. A positive attitude is important for me, if you have to spend 9, 12, 16 hours per week on dialysis make the most of the free time you have.”

You can support Joe's fundraising efforts here.