Family raise money in memory with fun run for Kidney Research UK

The family of a 17-year-old from Haywards Heath who died from kidney disease are organising a fun run to raise money for Kidney Research UK.
From left, Paul Wrelton with his brother Shaun pictured a few years before his death from kidney failureFrom left, Paul Wrelton with his brother Shaun pictured a few years before his death from kidney failure
From left, Paul Wrelton with his brother Shaun pictured a few years before his death from kidney failure

Shaun Wrelton died in 2003 only ten months after being diagnosed with the disease, and since then his family has raised £7,000 from eight events organised by Haywards Heath Sixth Form College.

Shaun’s mother, Jan Wrelton, said:“We remember Shaun as a very lively showman, as a young lad who liked the attention of his peers, he is hugely missed by all.

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“His father died 20 years ago so it’s been quite devastating.

“We haven’t had much luck,” she added.

Paul Wrelton, pictured above, said:“My Brother, Shaun Wrelton died in August 2003 aged 17 due to complications from kidney failure.

“Since 2003 we have hosted a fun run and walk in memory of him with all proceeds going to Kidney Research UK.

“This is the first year we will organise it ourselves.”

The five kilometre challenge is at the recreation ground at Whiteman’s Green, Cuckfield on April 24 at 7pm.

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Her mother explained: “We are motivated to raise money for kidney disease patients as it is a traumatic illness, especially for a young lad like Shaun.

“Kidney disease is hugely common but does not always get as much coverage as other illnesses.”

In August 2003 the family planned a kidney transplant between Shaun and his mother in St George’s Hospital, London.

Unfortunately there were complications, leaving him in intensive care in the Royal Sussex County Hospital for a week until he died on August 18.

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His mother said that this shocked many people in Haywards Heath.

She added:“During his illness he was a very brave and positive young lad and kept cheerful throughout as he was a bubbly young boy.

“He tended to like the limelight and joking about with his mates.”

Many people who knew Shaun have attended previous events.

Both competitive runners and walkers are welcome, refreshments will be provided.

Donations can be made on Shaun’s memorial page at www.kidneyresearchuktributes.org/shaunwreltonmemorialfund