Inaugural Kidney March seeks walkers and volunteers

CALGARY, May 11 /CNW/ - The Kidney Foundation of Canada is proud to announce the first ever Kidney March, supporting the fight against kidney disease. The Foundation is looking to recruit 600 participants to take part in this inaugural event, being held in Kananaskis Country from September 10 to 12, 2010.

"It's more important than ever for people to turn their attention to kidney disease, which is why we decided to create this powerful event," says Joyce Van Deurzen, executive director of the Kidney Foundation of Canada - Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan. "We want to bring a new level of awareness to the public and create a close community for those who are affected by, or are supporters of the fight against, kidney disease."

Through this event, the Kidney Foundation is striving to start a movement and bring national attention to the cause. Most Canadians who are at risk of kidney disease may not even know it. Currently, two million people have chronic kidney disease or are at risk and the numbers are growing fast. The 100-kilometre Kidney March will put its roots down in Calgary, although it's already garnering national interest with some participants travelling from as far away as Quebec.

"I'm truly inspired by the support we've received so far and am looking forward to connecting with other participants throughout this journey," says Will Osler, president of the board of The Kidney Foundation of Canada - Southern Alberta and a March participant. "We want to get as many people as possible involved in this life-changing event. The more participants we have, the more we can support kidney disease prevention and research."

Participants agree to raise a minimum of $2,200 and can register as an individual walker, a team captain, or as a team. Individuals have full support for the event, including training courtesy of the YMCA and the use of effective fundraising tools. There is also the opportunity to register as a crew member or volunteer for the event.

The funds raised by the Kidney March will go to the Kidney Foundation of Canada. The Kidney March is the first multi-day walk put on by the Kidney Foundation that is completely focused on raising funds towards kidney health programs and cutting-edge medical research aimed at combating kidney disease.

To register, call 1-866-9-KMARCH or visit www.kidneymarch.ca.

The Kidney Foundation of Canada is the national volunteer organization committed to reducing the burden of kidney disease through funding and stimulating innovative research; providing education and support; promoting access to high quality healthcare, and increasing public awareness and commitment to advancing kidney health and organ donation.

For further information: Carla Reti, Communications Strategist, Bryan Mills Iradesso, T [phone] ext. 213, E [email protected]