Irish Kidney Association

The Irish Kidney Association is a charitable, voluntary organisation founded in 1978. The association is dedicated to meeting the needs of renal patients, their families, and caregivers affected by end-stage renal disease. These needs span medical, social, and psychological aspects of life. The kidney patient population ranges from infants to the elderly, undergoing various treatments such as haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis (both CAPD and APD), and kidney transplantation.

Where the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle Funds will be spent.

The Munster Support Centre is a vital but costly resource, requiring approximately €300,000 annually to cover operations, including maintenance, consumables, and essential services for kidney patients and their families. The money raised through the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle provides significant support for this cause.

The Centre serves as a peaceful haven for patients’ relatives and friends who transport them to and from hospital appointments. It features a tranquil garden with outdoor seating to promote relaxation, as well as a counselling room staffed by accredited professionals who provide support. The Centre is operated by empathetic individuals, many of whom are kidney patients with firsthand experience of the patient’s journey. In line with the organization’s ethos, use of the facility is free of charge for patients and their loved ones.

The Centre boasts six en-suite bedrooms, including two accessible units, along with a drop-in recreational hub, living area, and two quiet rooms. Patients can also enjoy a large, landscaped garden, providing a serene space to find respite outside the clinical hospital setting.

The services are free of charge for kidney patients and their accompanying family members and carers travelling from throughout Munster for hospital appointments and inpatient stays.

Thank you for your support.