Frodsham Will to Work founder recovering from kidney transplant

Mar 20 2009 by Barry Ellams, Chester Chronicle

THE FOUNDER of a pioneering workshop for disabled people is recovering from a life-saving kidney transplant.

Geoff Prince who launched Will to Work Workshop desperately needed a new kidney.

After an anxious two and a half year wait for a suitable donor Geoff was taken to The Royal Liverpool Hospital for a major transplant operation.

The 60-year-old, of Church Road, Frodsham, is recuperating at home after two weeks in hospital.

“I’m one of the lucky ones,” said Geoff. “I’m so grateful to the donor and his family. I believe he was from Birmingham and was the same age as me.

“I’m on a lot of medication but I’m doing very well and hopefully I’ll soon be as fit as most other people.”

After being struck down by encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) – which affected his kidneys and meant undergoing renal dialysis three times a week – Geoff realised there were many other patients like him who were left with little to do when hospital-based occupational therapy ended.

Supported by family and friends, he started the workshop, a registered charity based in Fountain Lane, – helping members build up their confidence in a working environment as they complete various projects. They specialise in woodwork and receive regular commissions for their quality products.

To contribute to the Will to Work Workshop call 01928 731477.