News

Nine-year-old Grady Batchelor from Winnipeg, Manitoba is the recipient of the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy award! 

Grady has had a significant impact on the kidney disease and organ donation community. Having received a kidney transplant from his dad, he normalizes conversation surrounding kidney disease and transplant and ensures people of all ages understand what it’s like living with a chronic illness.
 
“It is remarkable that someone at such a young age can inspire hundreds of others to contribute donations to an important cause.” - Joni Tesoro, Grade 3 Teacher, École Julie-Riel
 
He understands the need for fundraising and advocacy, and is always seeking ways to share his story to help educate others. That’s why he engages his elementary school to host their own Kidney Walk every year, accompanied with a week-long kidney-themed spirit week to help bring awareness to kidney disease and organ donation. In the last 7 years, this has raised over $40,000.
 
“Grady had not only had an impact on the 336 students and the 40 staff members of École Julie-Riel, but he has touched the hearts of the entire school community in South St. Vital and all the Louis Riel School Division... Grady’s willingness to be so open and outspoken about the need for organ donors and about kidney awareness brought hundreds of people together. He made folks aware of how they can make a difference by becoming organ donors.” – Lyette Carriere, Principal of École Julie-Riel
 
The Kidney Foundation of Canada is so grateful for Grady’s contributions to our cause. Join us in celebrating Grady’s accomplishments at the Manitoba Philanthropy Awards Luncheon on November 15^th. Details at About the Event - AFP Manitoba Chapter (afpnet.org)