Saturday 13 February 2027 -                              DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON GLASGOW CENTRAL             


WELCOMING KIDNEY KIDS SCOTLAND TO THE PURPLE BALL FAMILY

For the past 12 years, The Purple Ball has proudly raised funds in support of Kidney Research UK, helping to fund vital research that improves treatments, enhances patient care, and brings us closer to a future where kidney disease no longer devastates lives.

As we enter our 13th year, we are delighted to expand our support and welcome Kidney Kids Scotland as a charity partner alongside Kidney Research UK.

While funding research remains absolutely essential, we also recognise the importance of supporting children and families living with kidney disease right now. Kidney Kids Scotland provides practical, emotional, and financial support to children affected by kidney conditions and their families across Scotland. Their work helps families navigate the challenges of treatment, hospital visits, education, and everyday life, ensuring that no child faces their kidney journey alone.

Every ticket purchased, auction bid placed, and donation made at The Purple Ball will help us continue investing in groundbreaking kidney research while also providing direct support to children and families who need it today.  Together, we can fund hope for the future and provide help in the present.

One cause. Two incredible charities. One unforgettable night making a difference.

Dawn (centre) pictured with Dr Zubir Ahmed MP, Minister for Health Innovation and Sandra Currie OBE, CEO Kidney Research UK

WINNER OF FIRST PURPLE HEART AWARD ANNOUNCED

On Saturday we had the immense privilege of presenting the very first Purple Heart Award — and what a truly special moment it was 💜
This award was created to honour someone extraordinary within the kidney community — someone whose compassion, commitment and courage have made a lasting difference to patients and families alike. Someone who has shown up, spoken up and never given up.
We are so proud to say that the inaugural Purple Heart Award was presented to Dawn Maclean Gillon.
Dawn’s journey with kidney disease began in childhood, spending much of her early years in and out of hospital. She has lived and breathed the reality of kidney disease, including the heartbreak of transplant failure. Yet through it all, she has remained a tireless patient ambassador — sharing her story, championing research, and giving hope to others walking the same path.
The award was presented by Kidney Research UK CEO Sandra Currie OBE and Health Innovation Minister, Zubir Ahmed MP, who as both a transplant surgeon and long-time supporter, knows Dawn’s strength and resilience first-hand.
Dawn embodies everything the Purple Heart Award stands for. She may never have sought recognition — but her impact is profound.



The Purple Ball is Scotland's annual fundraising gala dinner in aid of Kidney Research UK and Kidney Kids Scotland.