A man is set to take on the Kingston Run Challenge almost exactly two years after undergoing a life-saving kidney transplant operation.
Jonathan Watson, 43, will run eight miles of a 24-mile relay race across the town centre and the Thames towpath in aid of Transplant Sport – two days after celebrating his “kidney-versary”.
The Canbury Avenue resident said: “I’m trying to build up to a half marathon, but the consultants don’t seem that keen on me doing a marathon.
“I am a bit nervous, but looking forward to it. I just hope I feel alright on the day.”
The father-of-one, who was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2010, only found out about his condition when he registered with a new GP in Kingston.
The freelance journalist said: “The night before I went to A&E I was in the gym on a running machine.”
Luckily Mr Watson’s elder brother, Chris, a Buddhist monk living in a Northumberland monastery, donated a kidney.
Mr Watson said: “As soon as Chris heard he offered to be a donor straight away – I felt worried, relieved, hopeful, grateful. It was a lot of different emotions.
“I was aware the kidney had not had any alcohol for a number of years – so I knew it was in good condition. It makes me want to look after it even more.”
Family: Jonathan Watson, right, with brother Chris, now a buddhist monk, as young men
Mr Watson, who will be running the relay with his wife and a friend, also took part in a 10k race earlier this year and is hoping to build up the distances he once covered as a marathon runner.
A spokesman from Chessington-based event organisers, Human Race, said: “We are delighted that Jonathan will be taking part in the Garmin Kingston Run Challenge for such a great cause.
“His story is an inspiration and everyone at Human Race wishes Jonathan and his team all the best.”
Now in its 25th year, the Kingston Run Challenge sets off from Market Place at 8am on Sunday, October 12.
Human Race will also host the Breast Cancer Care Women Only Run, of which former Spice Girl Mel C is the ambassador, on October 17 in Richmond Park.
For more information visit humanrace.co.uk.
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