It is our goal to one day be able to provide The Fitness Grant program to patients all around the world. We hope that you will join us in our pursuit.

www.shadirelandfoundation.ca

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“Helping patients to pursue their own finish line.”

The Shad Ireland Foundation allows dialysis patients who suffer from kidney failure the revolutionary opportunity to improve their quality of life and to pursue their life long goals by positively incorporating physical fitness and education into their daily lives.

Competing in the Lake Placid, NY, 2004 Ironman Triathlon, Shad Ireland realized his dream of becoming the first kidney dialysis patient to complete an Ironman Triathlon. Shad heard about triathletes competing in the Hawaii Ironman when he was recovering from the rejection of a kidney transplant. Consisting of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and a 26.2 mile run, the event transfixed Shad, who made a promise to himself to compete as an elite level athlete in an Ironman event.

After recovering from the life-threatening experience Shad set out to reach his dreams. Although many people were skeptical the he could compete in such and event while undergoing dialysis treatment, Shad trained hard and refused to accept failure – the same attitude that he wishes to develop in all kidney patients seeking a better quality of life. Shad now plans on competing in five more races in 2005 with the hopes of qualifying for the World Championships in Kona Hawaii. Shad sums up his efforts by saying, “Realize that you are more than your diagnosis and your perception will begin to change. Realize your goals and dreams, ask questions, seek answers, and strive to achieve; your world will transform right before your eyes.”

The Shad Ireland foundation will help to raise awareness about kidney disease, and promote efforts to provide funding to kidney patients who wish to improve their fitness and quality of physical well-being.

The Peg Smythe Fitness Grant

These activities will be funded through corporate donations, foundations, and individual donations solicited through speaking engagements by Shad Ireland, and the Shad Ireland Foundation web site and through the grant process.

The number of grants will be determined by the amount of funds raised during the year. 80% of the money raised will be given back in grant money for the Fitness Grant and the Education Grant.