The Kidney Foundation of Canada is holding its very first fundraising Kidney Walk in Cranbrook on Sunday, August 29. Organizer Jenn Smith said she is hoping for a good turnout for what is hoped to be an annual event.

“We definitely need walkers because we want to get it off to a good start. I’m hoping to have at least 50 walkers, which I don’t think is too extravagant for this town,” she said. “I think this town is really great at supporting community events.”

The Walk will start at Confederation Park on Aug. 29 and those participating will walk the paths surrounding Elizabeth Lake. Registration for the event is at 9 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10 a.m.

Those wishing to participate can pick up pledge sheets at The Cottage Rose Quilt Shop (24 10th Avenue South), they can be found online (www.kidney.ca/bc) and click on the Kidney Walk link), or you can call Smith at 250-464-9994.

In addition to raising funds for the Kidney Foundation of Canada, the Walk is being held to raise awareness of kidney disease, a chronic illness that leads to eventual kidney failure, for which there is currently no cure. Diabetes is the most common source of kidney disease and high blood pressure is the second most prevalent cause of kidney disease.

There are currently more than 36,000 Canadians living with kidney failure and medical experts estimate there are two million people who have or are at serious risk of chronic kidney disease.

The Kidney Foundation of Canada is the national health charity working on behalf of kidney patients and their caregivers. It funds research into kidney disease, provides patient services, delivers public education and advocates to governments and health authorities on behalf of those with kidney disease.

The Walk is a family event, there will be prizes in different categories and Smith is planning a barbecue for participants for after the event. There is a Facebook group called 1st Annual Kidney Foundation Fundraiser Walk where more information is available.