It’s the most significant fundraiser of the year for the Kidney Foundation of Canada and residents of Barry’s Bay and Renfrew County are invited to take part.
Sunday is the local Kidney Walk at the the Pembroke Riverwalk Amphitheatre.
Senior Regional Manager of Community and Fund Development, Jennifer Heale, told My BarrysBayNow the fundraising aspect is paramount, however, raising awareness about kidney disease is equally important.
Heale says one in 10 Canadians lives with kidney disease and it is not well understood by the general population.
“Often people can have the disease long before they are diagnosed as the symptoms can be quite subtle. Encouraging people to take a pro-active role in their kidney health can lead to early diagnosis and life-style interventions to prolong organ function.”
Heale says walks help to build community and show patients and families that they are not alone.
Heale adds that the kidney foundation invests in transformative medical research and kidney walks are a major piece of that puzzle. The foundation also provides a number of services to patients including peer support programs, educational programs, financial support for low-income patients and summer camps.
“As we learn more about kidney disease we see treatments evolve to help patients lead longer, richer lives.”
Registration at the Amphitheatre starts at 10 a.m. and the walk begins at 11 a.m.
Friends, family and members of the public can take part or attend.
Go to www.kidneywalk.ca for more information.
