By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Communities across Halton will gather for the annual Kidney Walk, a momentous event to help those affected by kidney disease.
It offers an opportunity to support friends facing kidney challenges, celebrate transplant successes, honour the memory of those we’ve lost, and connect with others on similar journeys. More than just a fundraiser, the Kidney Walk symbolizes hope for everyone touched by the disease. Participants will unite to raise vital funds and back The Kidney Foundation’s research and program efforts.
The Kidney Foundation has seen significant progress since its inception sixty years ago by a group dedicated to funding kidney research and raising awareness about kidney disease. With advancements in research, kidney disease is no longer the death sentence it once was. However, it still affects 1 in 10 Canadians, and millions more are at increased risk.
“Last year’s Kidney Walk raised a record-breaking one million dollars,” said Mary-Pat Shaw, President of The Kidney Foundation’s Ontario Branch.
“Kidney Walks are our signature event, and this year is particularly meaningful as we also celebrate the 60th anniversary of The Kidney Foundation of Canada.”
This year, the Air Canada Foundation is adding a special incentive to the Kidney Walk. Participants who fundraise online between August 7, 2024, and September 30, 2024, will receive a ballot for every $100 raised, with a chance to win a voucher for two economy class return tickets to any Air Canada scheduled destination.
Over 12,000 Ontarians rely on life-sustaining dialysis treatments several times a week, with many waiting for kidney transplants. While transplantation offers the best outcome for end-stage kidney failure, the shortage of organ donors persists.
Individuals living with kidney disease face numerous challenges—emotional, financial, and physical. “From funding world-class research, providing education and resources, peer support and financial assistance, The Kidney Foundation is with Canadians for every step of their kidney disease journey,” said Shaw.
“We are incredibly appreciative to our Walk participants and donors that help us achieve these goals.”
The Kidney Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to national partner Otsuka Canada Pharmaceutical Inc., national supporter Amgen Canada, media sponsor Yes TV, and prize sponsor Air Canada Foundation for their unwavering support of the Kidney Walk. Their contributions are invaluable in our mission to fight kidney disease.
For more information, to register, or to donate, please visit www.kidneywalk.ca.
Event details:
Halton Region Kidney Walk
Sunday, September 22, 2024
Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park, 2340 Ontario St., Oakville
Registration: 9am, Start Time: 10am