The National Kidney Foundation Serving Maryland and Delaware will hold its 12th annual Salisbury Kidney Walk,Sunday, Oct. 13, at WinterPlace Park (6737 Blue Ribbon Rd. – 21804). More than 500 people are expected to step up to raise awareness of kidney disease, organ donation and the importance of early screening and healthy lifestyle for those at risk.
“Participating in Kidney Walk can help save lives,” said Event Chair Stephanie Elliott, MS, BSN, CNN (renal services program manager with Peninsula Regional Medical Center). “NKF reminds walkers that it only takes two simple tests at your primary care doctor’s office to check for any red flags. That’s important, because kidneys are essential to keeping us alive and healthy.”
Event check in begins at 9 a.m. Following warm-up exercises and announcements by 47ABC Weekend Anchor Brooke Butler, the Walk will kick off at 10 a.m. following a ribbon cutting by WalkAmbassadors: Meghan, Wes and CharlotteRice of Princess Anne. Daughter, Charlotte was born in August, 2016 with no kidneys and was on dialysis since she was one-week-old. In April 2019, she underwent a transplant – receiving a kidney from father, Wes.
Participants can choose from a 3-mile route orshorter path for strollers and wheelchairs. Adding to the fun, everyone can enjoy refreshmentsfrom Panera Bread, Giant and Starbucks, music by Green Room Karaoke and the Kidney Kids Cornerwith face painting and games.
Funds raised through Kidney Walk will directly support NKF’s local patient services, education and research efforts.
Participation is free, but donations are encouraged. Everyone who raises a minimum of $100 will receive a commemorative Walk t-shirt. Additional recognition gifts – including jackets – will be awarded for meeting various fundraising levels.
For online registration, visit www.kidneywalk.org. To learn about local sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, contact Nicole Scharf(associate executive director and living kidney donor) at 410.726.8732. To date, top sponsors of the Salisbury Kidney Walk include Christiana Care Health System, Peninsula Regional Medical Center, Peninsula Nephrology Associates, Delmarva Kidney and Hypertension Specialists, Salisbury Elks Lodge and VFW Post 194.
Taking place in nearly 100 communities, Kidney Walk is the nation's largest fundraiser to fight kidney disease. Annually, 85,000+ walkers raise more than $9 million to help kidney patients and their families. More than 80 cents of every dollar raised directly supports NKF programs and services.