A family in Derry is raising funds for kidney disease support and the Make-A-Wish Foundation through a skydive in memory of John Hegarty, who died last year due to heart complications.

John Hegarty, who would have turned 50 this year, had a kidney transplant during his lifetime. His brother Neil Hegarty said six members of the family have received kidney transplants because of an inherited kidney disease. The condition continues to affect younger generations, with some of Neil's grandchildren testing positive for the gene and potentially requiring renal support or a transplant later in life.

Neil Hegarty said the skydive was organised to honour John's memory and support others facing similar challenges. The family also chose to raise funds for Make-A-Wish, which Neil said was a charity close to John's heart. The family said Make-A-Wish creates life-changing moments for children and families during difficult times, reflecting the kindness and compassion John showed throughout his life.

Neil described his brother as amazing and funny, saying John would not pass a person without speaking to them. He said John was his only brother, and a phone call with him could lift a weight off your chest.

The family's genetic condition has brought relatives closer together, according to Neil. When someone is diagnosed, family members come together and travel to Belfast for blood tests, and whoever is a match steps forward. Neil said his wife donated a kidney to him, a sister donated to another sister, and another sister donated to his son.

The skydive idea came from Neil's nephew. Neil joked that he could not have picked something easier. Donations can be made through a JustGiving page titled Jump For John.