My passion - their mission, I feel truly lucky to write this blog in conjunction with The Northeast Kidney Foundation. Its been their mission “... to improve the lives of those living with kidney disease and related conditions, to increase organ donation, and to empower those we serve to be effective voices for better health care both personally and at the local, state and federal levels.” After living nearly 15 years with kidney disease I realize how important it is to educate and empower patients about kidney disease, the treatments out there and how vital it is for each and every one to become the captains of their own health care teams. When patients take charge of their own health and become actively involved they not only improve their lives and health, but also live longer and happier lives. The Northeast Kidney Foundation hosts many community events and the Kidney Walk is just one of them.
This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Northeast Kidney's Albany Kidney Walk. The annual Walk is just one of the community events the Northeast Kidney hosts to allow patients, families, caregivers and kidney professionals to come together to raise both awareness and funds to help find a cure for Chronic kidney disease. In a sea of bright colored shirts, I was touched to see the mile long line of supporters. Each team was put together to either support a loved one battling this life changing illness or to honor someone that has passed. The event was both family friendly and educational. My little cousins enjoyed the pony rides and the wonderful clown who made them special hats out of balloons. I was even more touched to see some of the area's nephrologists showing their support, even willing to sit in a "dunk" tank where they are soaked with water balloons, all in the name of raising awareness. I was honored to be part of this event and felt so much love and support by my family members and friends who walked with me and gave donations.
There are a few more Kidney Walks happening around New York State including:
Ithaca on October 5, 2013
Poughkeepsie Walk over the Hudson for Kidneys on October 27 2013
Oneonta/Cooperstown on November 10, 2013
If your interested in participating in any of these Walks you can contact the Northeast Kidney Foundation at http://www.healthykidneys.org/
Thank you for joining me on this journey, I look forward to your input, comments and questions along the way.
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