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"I'm Back!" says Kidney

Patient Rod Lenette

Rod Lenette, British Arm Wrestling Champion, has returned to the sport following his successful kidney transplant. Rod, a former haemo patient at Addenbrooke’s, was transplanted in Nov 2008. Before his health problems Rod was eight times British Arm Wrestling Champion. After intensive post-transplant training he has returned to the sport and now regained his British title.

Rod’s enthusiasm for his sport, and the impact his transplant had on his life led to him making a short documentary film promoting transplantation. This was premiered at Bedford Cineworld in January and hopefully will be picked up by the networks and shown on TV later this year. Prof Andrew Bradley and Prof Steve O'rahilly feature in the film, and Rod plans soon to arrange a viewing at Addenbrooke's which both Profs can attend, together with dialysis and transplant staff and any interested members of AKPA.

Rod sees this film event very much as a payback venture. He is clearly grateful to the staff of Addenbrooke’s for his excellent care before, during and after his transplant, but he also feels a particular debt of gratitude to AKPA. During his illness before the transplant he was unable to work and he really appreciated the financial support given to him and his family. Rod invited AKPA to collect at the Bedford premiere and his generous audience donated over £120.

Rod hopes that the film will inspire people not to give up on what they love doing. There is a trailer on YouTube:

Rod is currently very busy in the lead up to British Grand Prix & Fitness Expo to be held at the Excel Centre in London in March. Rod and his business partner Dave O’Neill will be hosting this event – AKPA wishes them the best of luck!