Cwmtwrch RFC Steps Up for Popham Kidney Support

Members, families, and friends of Cwmtwrch RFC are gearing up for a final push this week, aiming to cover a combined distance of 2,013 miles in July. This initiative, symbolising the charity’s founding year, is in support of Popham Kidney Support.

Cwmtwrch Rugby Club, established in 1890 and based in the Upper Swansea Valley, is a storied Welsh rugby union team. Known for its rich history and numerous achievements, the club currently fields a Senior XV competing in the WRU West Central 5 division.  

Every year, the club selects a charity to receive proceeds from its fundraising efforts. This year, their partnership with Popham Kidney Support is especially meaningful to both the team and staff, as it directly impacts various members of the club. Jaz Howells, Eddie Phillips, Andy Williams, Steve Smith, and Neil Amber all live with kidney disease.  

Neil has a particularly personal connection to the charity. After battling kidney disease for 30 years and undergoing a kidney transplant in 2009, he has been volunteering as a peer mentor for the past year. In this role, Neil supports fellow CKD patients at the start of their journey, offering advice and sharing his experiences. Rugby player Steve Smith is also a notable advocate. Following a life-saving kidney transplant from his closest friend, Kael Ace, Steve is committed to raising awareness about kidney disease and offering support to those facing similar challenges. 

Originally founded as ‘The Paul Popham Fund, Renal Support Wales,’ Popham Kidney Support offers assistance and raises awareness for individuals facing kidney-related challenges. Established in memory of the late Paul Popham, the charity’s mission is to support patients and their loved ones through every step of their journey, ensuring they never feel alone. 

Cwmtwrch Rugby Club’s 2,013-mile challenge is just one of several fundraising events planned over the next seven months. 

In April, the club hosted a hypnotist night featuring a live band performance. In May, three nurses and friends of Cwmtwrch RFC – Sheree, Stacey, and Menna – bravely climbed Pen-Y-Fan ten times within 24 hours, raising £2,000. From February to June, rugby player Gareth “braved the shave,” growing out his beard and raising £1,208.  

Joanne Popham, CEO of Popham Kidney Support, said: 

“We at Popham Kidney Support are extremely honoured to have been chosen as Cwmtwrch Rugby Club’s charity for their fundraisers. The club’s dedication and the community’s support have been truly heartwarming.  

“These efforts not only raise vital funds for our charity but also increase awareness about kidney health and support those affected by kidney disease. We are profoundly grateful for their commitment and generosity, which will help us continue our mission to improve lives and provide essential resources for those in need.” 

The fundraising page for Cwmtwrch RFC’s 2,013-mile challenge is live, you can donate here.