This morning (Monday), about 50 individuals met in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park to raise money and awareness for kidney disease.
For the first time in three years, the Kidney Foundation of Canada staged its 15th annual Kidney Walk in Prince George.
Paul Revelle, volunteer walk coordinator, stated, “We’re very happy to be back in person raising money for kidney research, kidney education, and most importantly patient support services.”
The target amount, according to Revelle, is $20,000.
It accomplishes three things: it raises money for kidney disease research, leading to better treatment options and perhaps one day a cure.
“Patient support services are most important, as well as public education through initiatives like our kidney wellness hub website.”
There are many therapy options available in Northern British Columbia for persons with renal illness, according to Revelle.
Revelle stated, “We have a dialysis unit up at the hospital in Prince George, we have a dialysis unit at the hospital in Fort St. John, and another one in Terrace.
Many people in Northern BC also undergo home dialysis, allowing them to remain in their neighbourhood while receiving treatment.
Kidney disease, according to Revelle, is rather uncommon.
He said, “You can lose 80% of your kidney function and not realise it.
“By the time most people are aware that they do have kidney disease, which is identified through a straightforward blood test, their options for treatment have already been severely limited.”
Numerous walks were organised across Canada today, including the one in Prince George.
