Hello,

My name is Shad Ireland. I am going to be the first Kidney dialysis patient to ever compete in or complete an Ironman competition. My goal is to finish with a qualifying time so that I can race in the world championship at Kona Hawaii this year. I will be competing at Lake Placid on July 25th. I am an age grouper in the 30-34 age group. I am 31 years old and have been on kidney dialysis for 21 years.

I have a website, www.shadireland.com.

Personally, I have a list of things I want to achieve in my life; my personal philosophy is that any obstacle can be over come. I believe in turning obstacles into achievements. I have always wanted to do an Ironman, but never thought that I could because of my health. I have overcome much adversity to get to this point in my life, multiple surgeries, 2 failed kidney transplants and numerous hospitalizations.

I want to be able to inspire others, to give back, and make a difference. I remember when I started dialysis; I was 10 years old. I looked at everyone who was on dialysis and they were all really sick, I had no positive role model, no one to look to, I thought I was going to be sick like everyone else, I was scared. I want to encourage others to live life, to find strength in any adversity they encounter, to stand tall no matter the circumstance, I have a quote on my website,

An individual cannot know their truest ability until they are faced with great adversity. -Unknown

I believe this because I personally found it to be true (see my philosophy page on my website). The Ironman is more than just a race, it takes on a life of its own for each and every athlete, For me it has multiple meanings, It is a source of personal achievement and a standard by which I push myself. Its like climbing a mountain, when you get to the top you stop and take a deep breath, quietly taken by the moment as you survey where you are, how far you have come, and what you have just achieved. I will achieve my goal and qualify for Kona, and through my achievement I hope to encourage and inspire others.

For more information please check out my website, www.shadireland.com

Shad Ireland