The 2009 Life Cycle Challenge formally came to an end yesterday when the Renal Unit was presented with five machines intended to make a radical difference to people suffering from kidney problems.

The machines are in essence portable dialysis units, which can help patients get rid of excess toxic fluids without having to spend hours at the hospital. In fact, these units allow for the dialysis to be done at night, with the machines being small enough to be placed on a bedside table.

Ever since its inception 11 years ago, the Life Cycle organisation has focussed on helping the Renal Unit, first at the former St Luke's Hospital, now at Mater Dei. Added to that, it raises funds to support patients afflicted with kidney disease and also promotes organ donation.

The 2009 challenge paid a dear price when veteran cyclist Clifford Micallef was killed in a hit-and-run accident while training on his bike.

Speaking at the donation ceremony, Health Minister Joseph Cassar thanked the organisation for the work in helping patients with renal problems. He also commended the group's promotion of organ donation, saying there was no greater gift than giving one's organs.

This year's challenge is called The Devil's Highway and will take place between August 14 and 29. It will take 45 cyclists and backup team of 25 over 2,000 km from Venice through Italy, Swizerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and France, ending in Manchester, home to the famed Manchester United football club, which is supporting the challenge.

It will be the first Life Cycle for 22-year-old Liz Grima. After taking up cycling seriously last December, she started training with a group which had Life Cyclists among its members.

"I tried to compare my level with those who had done the challenge before and decided I could give it a shot," Ms Grima told The Times.

Asked whether the prospect of pedalling an average of 200 km daily for a dozen days was daunting, the young woman said, "It's like approaching a flight of stairs. If you look at the whole flight it can scare you off but if you approach it one step at a time it becomes easier."

Physiotherapist and support member Elizabeth Micallef said that as long as the cyclists did not push themselves too hard - as would be the temptation at the start - injuries could be kept at bay.

Given the economic climate, last year's donations weren't very satisfying, Lifecycle chairman Alan Curry said. This year the group hopes to raise €200,000 for its cause.

Donations can be made through the website www.lifecyclechallenge.com or by texting 5061 7370 to donate €2.33, 5061 8920 for €7 and 5061 9229 for €11.65. One can also phone 5004 9065 to give €10, 5004 9060 for €20 on 5004 9063 for €50.

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