Kidney Walk in Ottawa Raises $120,000 for Kidney Foundation

The annual Kidney Walk has made a significant impact in Ottawa, raising over $120,000 for the Kidney Foundation of Canada. This event, part of a broader initiative taking place across Ontario throughout September, aims to raise awareness about kidney disease while supporting crucial research and patient services.

On Sunday, participants gathered at Strathcona Park to take part in either a 5 km or 1 km walk, with more than 200 individuals signing up for the cause. The funds raised will directly contribute to various programs, including financial aid and peer support for those affected by kidney disease.

Personal Stories Drive Fundraising Efforts

Among those participating was Devon Oickle, a 23-year-old who was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy earlier this year. This rare autoimmune condition affects kidney function and has significantly altered Oickle’s life. “In early 2024, I just got really sick, and we had no clue what was wrong with me,” Oickle shared with CTV News Ottawa. He noted that he might have been living with the condition since childhood.

Oickle’s journey highlights the importance of community support. He walked alongside family and friends, collectively raising $10,000 for the Kidney Foundation. His mother, Krista Matthews, emphasized the necessity of fundraising for future research and support initiatives. “Fundraising is something tangible that we can do to help Devon and other people living with kidney disease,” she stated.

Community Support and Organizational Impact

The Kidney Walk is the largest community fundraiser organized by the Kidney Foundation, with events occurring in cities across Ontario throughout September. Jennifer Heale, the Kidney Foundation of Canada’s senior regional manager, highlighted the significance of the funds raised, stating, “That number is going to support investments in research. It’s going to support patient programs and services.” Heale pointed out that the organization relies entirely on community support, as it does not receive any government funding.

For many participants, the walk represents more than just a fundraising event; it serves as a gathering for those impacted by kidney disease. Mauro Burri, who has participated for nearly a decade after undergoing three transplants, expressed the emotional weight of the event. “This walk means everything. It’s a chance for people that have kidney disease, donors, families of patients to come together,” he noted. Burri emphasized the importance of community connection, highlighting that everyone shares a common purpose.

The Kidney Foundation reports that one in ten Canadians are affected by kidney disease, underscoring the need for ongoing support and awareness. The funds raised during events like the Kidney Walk play a crucial role in advancing research and providing necessary resources for patients and their families.

The success of this year’s Kidney Walk in Ottawa reflects not only the generosity of the community but also the resilience of those living with kidney disease. As participants walked together, they demonstrated a collective commitment to improving lives through awareness and fundraising efforts that will benefit countless individuals facing similar health challenges.