In 2017, after developing renal failure due to a childhood infection, Pradip Patel underwent a kidney transplant. While the surgery was initially successful, his body soon began to reject the new organ, a life-threatening complication that affects many transplant recipients.
Pradip faced prolonged therapy and a gruelling recovery process. Once he was well enough, he organised a golf charity event, raising £16,000 to support research into organ rejection.
His commitment to supporting research was recognised with an invitation to attend the formal opening of the Pears Building in 2021, the purpose-built home of the Institute of Immunity and Transplantation for scientists investigating the human immune system.
Mina Patel, Pradip’s wife said: “The successful transplant gave Pradip a second chance at life and we are forever grateful for the extra years we got to spend with him. As a family, we want to continue Pradip’s charitable legacy and support others in a similar position to give them the best chance of post-transplant success.”
Following his death last autumn, family and friends contributed donations in lieu of funeral flowers.
To mark the first anniversary of Pradip’s death, his family organised a fundraising golf day and dinner to continue his charitable legacy. Thanks to their fundraising efforts, over £26,000 has been contributed to further the research that Pradip supported.