A walk to promote kidney health is taking place for the first time in New Hazelton.
The 2.5 kilometre walk will be held in Allen Park on Sunday from 9 a.m. -1p.m.
It’s a family-oriented event designed for people of all ages and levels of fitness.
The money raised will go to the Kidney Foundation of Canada that aims to reduce the burden of kidney disease by providing education and support, promoting access to high quality healthcare and fund research.
Organizer Dr. Julie Carlson-Phelan said MLA Doug Donaldson and Mayor Gail Lowry will be attending. A nutritionist will be speaking about healthy living. There will also be nurses on hand to check sugar levels and blood pressure. A lifestyle educator will be giving tips on how to live a healthy life.
However, Carlson-Phelan said the main purpose of the event is raise awareness of organ donation, which is a cause close to her heart.
“My husband donated his kidney to me in 1999,” she said.
There will be organ registration forms for people interested in becoming a donor. Information about how to be a living donor will also be available.
Carlson-Phelan is hoping to raise $5,000. She said there is no registration fee but is asking people donate $25, but whatever they can give is appreciated.
People can either register at the event or ahead of time online at www.kidneywalk.ca.
Carlson-Phelan is hoping this walk will become an annual event.