HUNTSVILLE – Alabama is No. 1, but there’s nothing to cheer about in this nationwide ranking.
Alabama ranks first in the number of dialysis patients per capita in the United States, and interested residents looking for a way to do something to improve that status have to look no further than Saturday’s fundraiser sponsored by the Alabama Kidney Foundation (AKF).
The AKF, a non-profit focused on kidney disease outreach and patient support, is hosting its annual Huntsville Kidney Walk & Celebration from 8-11 a.m. at Big Spring Park West. Proceeds from the celebration support kidney patients with daily living expenses as well as transportation to and from dialysis treatments.
“Our annual walks are critical in defining what kind of assistance we can provide to the growing population of those fighting an incredibly draining disease,” said JoHelene Patrick, AKF Director of Corporate & Community Partnerships. “This event not only allows us to raise funds for those we serve, but also allow us the opportunity to educate our communities.”
Alabama has more than 1,000 residents on the transplant waitlist among 90,000 nationwide. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) reports that 661,000 Americans suffer from kidney failure, with diabetes and high blood pressure as the two primary causes. Of these, 468,000 individuals are on dialysis.
Bob Broadway, CEO and Founder of The Broadway Group, a Huntsville-based commercial real estate company, will be serving as the Honorary Walk & Celebration Chair. The Broadway Group understands how much any form of support means to kidney dialysis patients.
“I’m honored to serve as the 2024 Huntsville Kidney Walk & Celebration Chairman and bring kidney disease awareness to the community,” Broadway said. “Kidney disease affects patients physically, emotionally, and financially; we’re committed to this cause and proud to be a part of it.’’
For more information on how to get involved or donate, visit www.huntsvillekidneywalk.org.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
