Mayo man’s legacy lives on at IKA National Kidney Support Centre
Representatives of the James McNeive Foundation have presented a cheque for €45,000 to the Irish Kidney Association (IKA) at the National Kidney Support Centre at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.
Established in memory of the late James McNeive, from Knock, who tragically passed away in a car accident in August 2024 at the age of 28, the foundation continues to honour the legacy of the popular schoolteacher through initiatives that reflect his passions for teaching, sport, family and the community.
Since its first fundraiser held in June 2025, the 5 Peaks Challenge, which involved climbing five mountains across Ireland and the UK over five days, the foundation raised €184,000 for a range of community projects inspired by James’ life.
Attending the IKA’s Support Centre was James’s younger brother, Matthew, who spent almost his entire twenties on dialysis after his first kidney transplant failed.
Before James passed away, he had hoped to donate a kidney through the paired exchange scheme in Belfast for Matthew.
Earlier this year, twenty-eight-year-old Matthew received a living donor kidney transplant from another relative.
At the cheque presentation, Matthew was joined by fellow James McNeive Foundation members Marina Carney, partner of Matthew's twin brother Michael, and his aunt, Noreen Furlong.
During their visit, they met IKA staff and enjoyed a guided tour of the Support Centre, where they viewed a commemorative plaque recognising the McNeive Foundation's generous support.
They also visited the garden, where a bench with a plaque dedicated to James provides a lasting tribute to his memory.
Commenting on the generous donation, Colin White, the National Advocacy Manager for the Irish Kidney Association said, “The Irish Kidney Association extends its sincere gratitude to the James McNeive Foundation, James’ family and friends, and everyone who has supported its fundraising efforts.
"This remarkable donation will help us continue providing free accommodation, day facilities, and practical support to kidney patients and their families travelling from across Ireland for treatment in Dublin Hospitals.
"We are deeply honoured that James’s legacy will continue to make such a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”