KIDNEY MARCH CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY!

This year marks the 15th anniversary of Kidney March, a three-day, 100-kilometre charitable march held annually in the Calgary area. On the second day, approximately 500 Kidney Marchers, Crew, and Volunteers will traverse through Bragg Creek/Redwood Meadows on their heroic journey.

We appreciate your assistance in keeping the Kidney March community safe and spreading awareness about this impactful event. On Saturday, September 7, 2024, between 9:00 am and 2:30 pm, residents of Bragg Creek/Redwood Meadows are encouraged to show their support and cheer on the brave marchers. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and adhere to speed reduction zones along the route to ensure everyone’s safety.

Kidney March is not your average walkathon. It is the only walk of its kind in the world. No other walk goes this far, for this long, for this cause. Kidney March is a true testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of collective action. By dedicating three days of their lives to walking an average of 33 kilometres per day, participants aim to symbolize the difficult and often strenuous journey faced by those living with kidney disease. It is a life-changing experience that has an incredible impact on the lives of millions of Canadians living with kidney disease.

“It’s more than a walk. Kidney March means so much to so many, it brings a lot of hope to people who need it, and it is a vital source of community support. Every year Kidney March makes a huge impact,” explains Michelle Hofer, Manager of Communications and Community Development, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Southern Alberta Branch. The funds raised through Kidney March play a crucial role in kidney disease prevention, lifesaving research, patient programs, health education, and organ donation initiatives through The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s work.

Kidney March participants are drawn together from across Canada, and internationally because their lives have been touched by this disease. Patients, loved ones, doctors, nurses and researchers all participate side by side, connecting and building bonds that go far beyond the event itself.

Kidney disease is a leading cause of death in Canada and there is no cure. It’s called a silent killer for a reason. By the time you know you have it, it’s often too late. Anyone can develop kidney disease, but some are at higher risk than others such as those with high blood pressure, diabetes, and genetic predispositions.

1 in 10 Canadians has kidney disease, each day 15 people learn their kidneys have failed. Kidney disease is a lifelong illness that kills thousands, costs the health care system millions, and devastates families. Unless we stand up and act, this silent disease will continue to take lives and livelihoods.

“People are counting on us. The funds raised will improve lives, there’s no question about that,” says Joyce Van Deurzen, Executive Director, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Southern Alberta Branch. “We are thrilled to have incredible support from our community. It is truly inspiring. Kidney March asks Marchers and Crew to do the most they can do for kidney disease and organ donation, and over the last 15 years they certainly have. This year’s goal is to raise one million dollars. Calgary is a worldwide centre of excellence on kidney research, so the money raised by this event makes a huge difference, it’s going to change the future for those facing a kidney disease diagnosis.”

It’s not every day that ordinary people get to be heroes, but at Kidney March they do. The Kidney Foundation is thrilled to see Kidney March celebrate its 15th anniversary and continue to grow every year. Join us in 2024 for an unforgettable journey where… Kidneys May Fail.
We Won’t.

Learn more and be inspired to register or donate at KidneyMarch.ca | 1.866.956.2724

On Facebook, X, and Instagram: @KidneyMarch