Andy Cole, former Man U striker, sets up kidney transplant research fund
Cole’s target is to raise £500,000 in the next three years which would primarily be used to fund under-researched areas in kidney diseases and consequently improve patients’ mental health and wellbeing.
After a tough battle against kidney failure, Former England and Manchester United striker Andy Cole has started a research fund to help improve kidney transplant and wellbeing of patients.
Cole 48, suffered a kidney failure in 2015 and underwent a life-saving kidney transplant as his nephew provided the donor kidney.
Andy Cole who is now in isolation due to the coronavirus pandemic aims to help other kidney patients through Andy Cole Fund run by Kidney Research UK setting his focus on improving kidney transplants and wellbeing of patients.
Cole’s target is to raise £500,000 in the next three years which would primarily be used to fund under-researched areas in kidney diseases and consequently improve patients’ mental health and wellbeing.
“I’ve been mentally strong enough to play football, but this is the toughest battle I’ve ever had to deal with,” said, Andy Cole.
“I don’t want anyone to end up struggling like I did. The mental battleis bigger than the physical problem. Your mind is the most powerful thing in the world,” Cole added.
Stating his aim for raising the fund, Cole said, “My goal now is to find better ways tohelp make life better for people living with kidney disease or a transplant.
“I’m calling on anyone who is touched by my story to support the fund and give hope to kidney patients. We need hope now more than ever,” Cole said.
Confirming Cole’s working with the institute to help transform kidney transplant, Kidney Research UK tweets, “Some great news in these difficult times. Together with @vancole9, we are launching the #AndyColeFund.”
Speaking about how grueling and risky the kidney failure trauma is, Sandra Currie, the Kidney Research UK chief executive, said,“We know that kidney failure can turn peoples’ lives upside down. It is a frightening time.”
“Dialysis is grueling, and life with a transplant – if you are fortunate enough to get one – is filled with uncertainty and risk.
“Kidney failure affects not only the patients but their families and loved ones,” added Sandra.
As part of his professional career, Andy Cole played Newcastle and Manchester City. He won five Premier League titles, one Champions League and two FA Cups with Manchester United.
