Southern Delaware Kidney Walk at Cape Henlopen State Park April 29
The National Kidney Foundation of Maryland and Delaware will hold its 10th Annual Southern Delaware Kidney Walk Sunday, April 29, at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.
Check-in begins at 10 a.m. at the picnic pavilion. Following a brief ceremony emceed by WBOC-TV Sussex County Bureau Chief Madeleine Overturf, the walk kicks off at 11 a.m. Participants can choose from a 3-mile route or a shorter, patient-friendly route for strollers and wheelchairs. The event also features entertainment; refreshments from Starbucks, Giant and Panera; a petting zoo, photo booth, and interactive vendor booths; and the Kidney Kids Corner with face painting and games sponsored by Kohl's.
More than 600 people are expected to step up to raise awareness of kidney disease, organ donation and the importance of early screening and healthy lifestyles for those at risk. Kidney disease is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately 2,175 Delawareans are on dialysis, and more than 400 Delawareans are on the organ transplant waiting list. With the increases in diabetes and high blood pressure, the numbers continue to climb.
"Participating in Kidney Walk can help save lives," said returning event Chair Kristy Ferracci, an FKC dialysis technician who donated a kidney to her husband 11 years ago. "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."
Funds raised through Kidney Walk will directly support NKF's local patient services, and 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. Other recognition gifts – including jackets – will be awarded for meeting various fundraising levels.
Overall, Kidney Walk is the nation's largest fundraiser to fight kidney disease, and it is held in nearly 100 communities. More than 85,000 walkers raise over $9 million to help kidney patients and their families each year, with more than 80 cents of every dollar raised directly supporting NKF programs and services.
To register, go to www.kidneywalk.org. For more information, visit www.kidney.org.
