David Ruttledge, a 43-year-old father from Dublin, received a life-changing renal cancer diagnosis just 48 hours after a phone call about routine blood tests. The fitness enthusiast, who was training for a TRYKA relay race, has since raised thousands for the Irish Kidney Association.
Routine Tests Reveal Abnormal Results
Last October, Ruttledge underwent a routine blood test that showed abnormal kidney markers. His GP requested a repeat test, which also returned elevated results. An ultrasound was then arranged. Despite the concerning findings, Ruttledge had no symptoms and continued preparing for the TRYKA relay alongside his wife Carmel, sister-in-law, and brother-in-law.
Ruttledge said: "I had no reason to think anything was seriously wrong. I had the ultrasound on the Friday of the February Bank Holiday weekend and completed the TRYKA relay on Sunday, February 1."
Diagnosis and Surgery
Days later, his GP called him in and explained the ultrasound had found a mass on his left kidney. The following day, he underwent two CT scans, and by Friday, he received the diagnosis: renal cancer with a large tumour on his left kidney. On March 3, he had a partial nephrectomy, during which surgeons successfully removed the entire tumour while preserving half of his kidney.
"Throughout the whole journey, I was carried by the love and support of my wife Carmel, my two sons, my family, and my friends," Ruttledge said. "Their positivity, encouragement, and belief in me helped me through some of the most difficult moments of my life. Today, I am incredibly grateful. Grateful for early detection, grateful for the healthcare professionals who looked after me, and grateful for the support network that helped me keep going."
Fundraising for the Irish Kidney Association
To mark his recovery and raise awareness, Ruttledge will tackle another TRYKA challenge this Saturday. He has already raised nearly €8,000 (around £7,000) for the Irish Kidney Association. "This challenge represents far more than fitness for me. It is a chance to prove to myself what is possible after cancer, to raise funds for a cause close to my heart, and to hopefully help others facing similar battles," he said. Donations can be made online.
