Andy Cole, who spent six years at Old Trafford, scoring 121 goals for the club and playing a key role in United’s treble triumph of 1999, underwent a kidney transρłɑɴt in 2017 after contracting an airborne virus.
Manchester UnitedheroAndy Colehas pledged £250,000 to fund research into kidney disease.
The former England striker, who also played forNewcastleUnited and Blackburn Rovers during a distinguished top-flight career, is working with Kidney Research UK after he underwent a transρłɑɴt in 2017.
Cole, part of United’s treble-winning side in 1999, set up the Andy Cole Fund with the charity to support patients’ mental health. Scientists, researchers and innovators are now being urged to apply for one of the first grants from the fund.
He said: “I set up the Andy Cole Fund to make a difference. I’m determined that we will find the best ways to support kidney patients’ mental health and improve the transρłɑɴt experience.
“Kidney disease is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to Ԁєɑł with. We’ve got to make it better for others and research is the answer.
“I’m excited to see what projects we can fund thɾօυɢҺ the Andy Cole Fund Grant Awards to help change the game for kidney patients.”
Kidney Research UK’s chief executive Sandra Currie said: “When Andy established the Andy Cole Fund, he wanted to focus on making a difference in areas that have affected him personally, aiming to help people live longer, healthier and happier lives with kidney disease.
“It’s an absolute pleasure working with him, and it’s great to be opening the fund for applications.
“All researchers who are interested in being part of this drive to improve transρłɑɴt outcomes for patients or to reduce the mental health burden of kidney disease should apply now and be part of the change.”
Cole suffered kidney failure in 2015, after contracting an airborne virus.
Cole, who scored 121 goals in 275 games for the Red Devils, underwent a transρłɑɴt operation, with a kidney from his nephew, as part of his treatment for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.
Those interested have until August 29 to apply.
