Shad Ireland is the first to understand the challenges a person faces having a chronic illness. It is easy to lose sight of achieving goals when the future is unknown and deciding on a career seems almost impossible. When Shad came back to Minnesota after becoming the first dialysis patient to ever compete in and complete an Ironman triathlon he wanted to come up with a program, a way to reach out and actively engage his fellow dialysis patients and others who suffer from chronic illness.

Shad's belief in what triathlon training did for him physically and mentally continues to play a major part in his life. Shad has faced much adversity in his life, but I has always been able to draw strength from that adversity. In these experiences, these accomplishments, he hopes to be able to inspire and show that with dedication, commitment, and personal resolve, any obstacle can be over come.

Providing an educational grant to a person with a chronic illness like kidney disease is one way Shad Ireland can give back and motivate others who may be interested in pursuing their dreams.

It is here that Shad's philosophy very strongly comes into play. "I personally believe that any obstacle can be overcome," he says with conviction. "With determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, I continue to strive to become the best I can be."

An even stronger indication of Shad's attitude is found in a thank-you email he sent to his thousands of supporters around the country. In it, he says, "On July 25th, we will all be crossing that finish line together and we will be making history." Not only will he be making history for those who will see a disease transcended, but for all of those who still believe achievement does mean not just "me" but "WE!"

The Shad Ireland Educational Grant Application process will be 3 times a year (summer session, fall, and winter semester) number of applicants selected will be evenly distributed over these three times based on funding availability. Total amount available to be awarded divided by three semesters for four years. The Grant will be paid out to the educational institution for tuition and books. No cash will be awarded to the individual. The amount will depend on the educational institution, the program selected, and the length of the program.

Eligibility criteria for The Shad Ireland Educational Grant is;

• The candidate must provide a letter from a medical doctor with the diagnosis of kidney disease.
• The candidate must provide proof of graduation from high school or an equivalent education level.
• The candidate must provide proof of acceptance to an accredited 2 year, 4 year, or trade school/ institution. ie. tech/trade school, community college, state or private college.

Selection Criteria for The Shad Ireland Educational Grant is;

• The candidate must provide a written explanation of professional goals and how getting an education beyond high school will provide them the opportunity to achieve those goals.
• The candidate must provide a letter of acceptance from a postsecondary institution or certification program.
• The individual must maintain a 2.5 or better grade point average per semester and complete the classes registered for. Medical illness exceptions will be taken under advisement.
• The candidate must provide a copy of the report card to provide proof of completion.

The amount of The Shad Ireland Education Grant is based on the costs of a postsecondary education. The Grant will be paid out to the educational institution for tuition and books. No cash will be awarded to the individual. The amount will depend on the educational institution, the program selected, and the length of the program.

The procedures for The Shad Ireland Educational Grant will be that the recipient must provide transcripts following each semester to prove that the courses were competed during the grant period and a 2.5 or better grade point average was maintained.