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March is Kidney Health Month – a time to shine a spotlight on kidney health as a vital health issue and raise funds to support Canadians affected by kidney disease.

“Four million Canadians - that’s one in 10 – live with kidney disease. Despite being vital organs, kidneys are all too often overlooked or ignored as part of our overall health,” said Dr. Norman Muirhead, President of The Kidney Foundation’s Ontario Branch. “That is, until you or someone you love is affected.”

People living with kidney disease fight a lifelong battle. The Kidney Foundation supports people each step of way throughout their life-long journey with the disease.

“The reality of kidney disease is that it’s a long, constant, heavy burden to carry for patients and their loved ones,” said Muirhead. “We’re asking Canadians to make their mark and join the fight against kidney disease by making a donation to support important programs and services to help empower those affected to live their best life,” he added. The public is encouraged to make their gifts online at www.kidneyontario.ca or by calling 1-800-387-4474.

The Foundation’s Kidney Health Month campaign will highlight the stories of volunteer challengers from across the province, all of whom are impacted in some way by kidney disease. Their goal is to kick-start the conversation about the importance of kidney health by sharing their lived experience with kidney disease on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to bring this often-invisible disease into the spotlight. They’re inviting all Ontarians to join the kidney community online by sharing their connection to kidney disease using #kidneyhealthmonth and #makeyourmark.

All funds raised will provide vital programs and services for Canadians affected by kidney disease and drive research innovation that brings us closer to a cure.

Canadians can bridge the knowledge gap and learn how important the mighty kidney is to their overall health by using The Kidney Foundation’s interactive risk awareness tool. Simply answer a few questions about lifestyle, health, and related factors to learn about the risk factors for kidney disease and tips to protect and preserve kidney health.