Sharon Shuttleworth, a 45-year-old mother of two from Gloucestershire, is undertaking an extraordinary challenge: walking five marathons in five consecutive days. This ambitious feat comes just one year after she donated a kidney, marking a profound journey of giving and resilience.
Starting her trek from Lechlade in the west of the county, Sharon plans to cover 125 miles, concluding in her home village of Highnam, near Gloucester, on Saturday, April 4. As a university student and mother to a 17-year-old daughter and 15-year-old son, Sharon’s determination shines through as she tackles this physical and emotional journey.
Her mission is to raise funds for two vital charities: the Gloucestershire Kidney Patients Association and Alport UK, which supports individuals affected by Alport syndrome—a genetic condition that damages kidney filtering units, leading to progressive kidney disease or failure. Both Sharon’s husband, Craig, and their daughter Izzy live with this challenging condition.
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In January 2025, Sharon was approved as a donor and, alongside her husband, entered the National Paired Exchange Programme. Their efforts resulted in a six-way kidney donation chain: Sharon donated her kidney to a patient in need, while Craig received a compatible kidney from another donor. A year later, Craig is recovering well, free from the symptoms that once plagued him.
To honor the support her family has received, Sharon has embraced this multi-marathon challenge, retracing a route across Gloucestershire over five days. Speaking after day two, she admitted, “My toes are quite unhappy with me already… The first day was hilly, but the beautiful weather and visits from family and friends kept me going.” A highlight awaits crossing the Severn Bridge into the Forest of Dean, where her children will join her.
When asked why she chose this intense challenge, Sharon humorously responded, “I can’t remember why I thought this was a good idea.” However, she soon explained, “Fundraising has always been a form of therapy for me. After donating a kidney, I connected with the Gloucestershire Transplant Team and wanted to give back. I love walking, so this felt right.”
Sharon’s fundraising page has already raised over £1,500, but she hopes to inspire even greater support. “This journey will be physically tough, with fatigue and sore muscles, but living with kidney disease is tougher,” she said. “Every step is for families like ours, those on dialysis, those waiting for transplants, and everyone who believes in the life-saving power of organ donation.”
Her efforts also aim to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donors. “There are 8,000 people in the UK waiting for kidney transplants. It’s such an important conversation, and I hope people consider donation.”
Sharon’s inspiring journey is a testament to the strength and hope that comes from giving and supporting others affected by kidney disease.