Cyclists visit Renal Unit as Challenge approaches

Patients receiving treatment at the Mater Dei’s Renal Unit were paid a visit this morning by some 35 cyclists training for the annual HSBC Lifecycle Challenge from Lourdes in France to Casablanca in Morocco. The challenge will be held between August 14 and 25.

The challenge, which this year marks its 10^th anniversary, is supported by HSBC Life Assurance which committed €20,000 for renal patients at Mater Dei.

The HSBC Lifecycle Challenge will see cyclists covering a total distance of 2,200 km in a bid to raise money to enhance treatment and services for renal patients. The aim of this year’s challenge is to raise enough money to give renal patients the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, accompanied by a Maltese Renal Team. It is a known fact that for these sufferers, even a short holiday is impossible unless dialysis facilities are arranged in the visiting country.

“HSBC Life is very conscious of the discomfort renal patients endure to receive the intensive treatment they require,” said Richard Jones, Managing Director of HSBC Life Assurance (Malta) Ltd. “We fully support this cause, not only financially but also through our participation in whichever way it is needed as we would like to enable these patients enjoy a better quality of life. Through our active involvement, which includes organisation of events together with the Lifecycle Organisation, we raise funds but we also seek to promote a healthy lifestyle of regular exercise, healthy eating and outdoor living for a full, long life.”

People may give a monetary donation as follows: by SMS €2.33 (Lm1) on 5061 7378; €6.99 (Lm3) on 5061 8927; and €11.65 (Lm5) on 5061 9219. Cheques or postal order may be sent to Life Cycle Organisation, c/o Renal Unit, Mater Dei Hospital, Malta. Direct transfers may be made to HSBC (Malta) Account 061 198 792 050 or Bank of Valletta Account 148 14 52 1017.