ABP Charity Gala Ball raises funds for Kidney Research

Belfast City Hospital Receives Acclaim for Exceptional Treatment A Charity Gala Ball held at the Armagh City Hotel on the 15th of November saw a gathering of over 600 supporters, successfully raising more than £40,000 for the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund. This significant event was spearheaded by ABP Food Group in gratitude for the successful kidney surgeries undergone by Seamus Kenny, the plant manager at ABP Lurgan, and his wife Pauline, at Belfast City Hospital. The narrative of their kidney transplant stands out because Pauline was not a direct match for Seamus. Nevertheless, they participated in a paired exchange program, allowing Pauline to donate her kidney to someone else in need, while Seamus received a kidney from a different donor. This exchange program enables donors and recipients to swap kidneys, ensuring their loved ones receive the transplants they need. In a gesture of solidarity with the Kenny family and in recognition of the exceptional care provided by Belfast City Hospital, the teams at ABP Lurgan and ABP Newry came together to organize the Charity Gala Ball, with all proceeds benefiting the vital efforts of the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund. Dr. Aisling Courtney, a Consultant Transplant Nephrologist attending on behalf of the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund, remarked, “The funds raised tonight are crucial in the battle against kidney disease. In the current economic climate, every contribution is valuable, and such a significant amount will significantly aid those suffering from kidney conditions. We are delighted with Seamus and Pauline's recovery and extend our best wishes for their future.” Seamus Kenny expressed his gratitude, stating, “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues at ABP for their presence tonight and their support for an incredibly important cause. Pauline and I were given exceptional care during a challenging period for our family, and I am confident that the funds raised tonight for the Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund will greatly assist others battling kidney disease.” The Northern Ireland Kidney Research Fund is dedicated to funding research into kidney disease's causes, prevention, and potential cures, as well as supporting the advanced technology needed for this research. The evening's entertainment included an after-dinner talk by Dr. Patrick Wall and performances by Country Music sensation, Declan Nerney, who was enthusiastically received by the attendees.