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On Saturday, March 18, The Kidney Foundation, Northern Alberta & The Territories Branch celebrates a return to their in-person Kidney Gala to raise awareness of kidney disease and funds to support their Short-Term Financial Assistance Program.

Get your tickets until March 15th and learn more.

Albertans living with kidney disease and on dialysis are among the most economically vulnerable in the province. The Kidney Foundation’s programs and services ensure patients can manage their health needs by ensuring finances are not a barrier to accessing basic needs.

“Our goal is to raise $75,000 for patient services,” says Flavia Robles, Executive Director for the Branch. “Kidney and transplant patients experience enormous financial barriers because of their health condition. They require medication, medical equipment, kidney-friendly foods, and access to transportation options so they can attend their medical appointments – whether it is lifesaving dialysis or for their transplant workup.”
Proceeds from The Kidney Gala ensure that kidney and transplant patients have access to the support they need when they need it most.

“Our Gala is a fundraiser, and it is a moment for kidney and transplant supporters to gather for a night to connect, create lasting memories, and most importantly, have fun!,” continues Robles. “The night will feature leaders from across Alberta taking the stage on the catwalk. Our models are Presidents, CEOs, Directors, Nephrologists and Business leaders who are stepping up to have fun while supporting our worthy cause. We are proud that Toby Boulet and Rob Suggitt are two of the models joining us.  Toby honouring his son Logan Boulet and Rob, honouring his brother Rick Suggitt, who, like Logan, was an organ donor and inspired Logan to register as an organ donor. We are excited to bring the Northern Alberta & the Territories community back together.”

In Alberta, over 500,000 Albertans have been diagnosed with kidney disease, and research shows this number continues to increase. Every year, 500 are diagnosed with end-stage renal failure and require life-sustaining dialysis treatment until they become eligible for a transplant. The average wait time for a transplant from a deceased organ donor is four years.

More information on the Kidney Gala,