Peterborough – Ten-year-old Caelan Wright is preparing to take on a five-mile fundraising walk at Ferry Meadows Country Park this Saturday as part of Kidney Research UK’s Peterborough March March. Caelan, who has a rare inherited kidney condition called Dent’s disease, is determined to raise funds to help improve treatments for thousands of people affected across Cambridgeshire.
Just two years ago, Caelan was diagnosed with Dent’s disease after doctors discovered blood and protein in his urine. His mum, Sammy Wright, explained the diagnosis:
“We noticed Caelan’s urine was frothy and took him to the doctors. Those results led to discovering his kidney condition. There is no cure to stop it completely, so all we can do is try to slow it down and protect his kidney function for as long as possible.”
Dent’s disease runs in Caelan’s family. Both of Sammy’s brothers required kidney transplants in their late thirties after their kidneys failed.
“Nobody knows what the future holds for Caelan,” Sammy said. “Unless there are advances in research, it could be the same story, and that’s very upsetting to think about.”
Despite these challenges, Caelan is motivated to make a difference. Earlier this year, he organised a non-uniform day at school, creating a poster about kidney disease and raising more than £900 for research.
“It has been scary having to spend time in hospital, and I do get tired more than I used to,” Caelan said. “But raising money for research makes me feel proud. I hope I can protect my kidneys so I can continue to play football for as long as possible.”
Caelan and his family first joined the Peterborough March March last year and are excited to take part again.
“It was lovely being together and seeing everyone else taking part,” Sammy said.
“Raising money through my school was fun, and doing the walk with my friends and family last year made me feel really special,” Caelan added.
The Peterborough March March takes place on Saturday 28 March at Ferry Meadows Country Park and is open to people of all ages and abilities. To support Caelan’s fundraising, visit: Walk with Caelan
