A rowing challenge led by two brothers aims to raise funds for kidney research after one was diagnosed with a rare condition
Bradford: Edward van Lopik and his younger brother, James, are making waves in their community. They’ve inspired everyone at BGS’s Boat Club to join in on this amazing challenge called ROW2025. The goal? To row a whopping 2,025,000 meters in just one week to raise money for Kidney Research UK.
That’s like running 48 marathons back-to-back! Pretty wild, right?
James, who’s only 14, was diagnosed last year with C3 glomerulonephritis, a rare autoimmune condition that messes with kidney function. It’s a tough break, affecting about one in a million people.
This condition can lead to kidney failure, which is scary. James had a rough time before his diagnosis, dealing with swelling and fatigue, and even spent a week in the hospital at Leeds General Infirmary.
His mom, Sarah, shared how proud she is of both boys. She said, “James has good days and bad days but has shown remarkable maturity and resilience since his diagnosis.”
It’s heartwarming to see them turn their challenges into something positive. The ROW2025 challenge has brought together the rowing communities at BGS and the Bradford Amateur Rowing Club, where they’re all active members.
The challenge kicked off on January 18, with participants rowing on ergometers at school or joining in from home. They’re all working together to cover 2,025 kilometers, which is like rowing from Bradford to Africa!
It’s a week-long fundraiser, and during this time, around 140 people in the UK will develop kidney failure. James mentioned, “It’s been tough at times, especially with the medication making me feel tired, but the school has been really supportive when I’ve needed time off.”
He’s super grateful for everyone getting involved, especially Ed. “I’m excited to see how much I can do on the erg myself and help us reach our goal,” he added.
If you want to help out, donations can be made at justgiving.com/page/bgs-boat-club.
