Despite the damp weather on Sunday, June 8th, spirits were bright at Morden Park as the Pembina Valley Kidney Walk brought together a crowd of passionate supporters to raise awareness and funds for kidney disease.
Organized by the Kidney Foundation of Canada – Manitoba Branch, the annual event drew many community members, patients, families, and supporters determined to make a difference for the 1 in 10 Canadians living with kidney disease.
"Even with the rain coming down, your energy and commitment truly shined!" shared the Kidney Foundation on Facebook. "We’re so grateful to this incredible community for showing up."
Rain couldn’t dampen the spirit
The walk, part of a national Kidney Foundation campaign, aims to support vital programs like peer support groups, financial assistance, and advocacy for those living with kidney disease. It’s an issue that hits close to home for many in the Pembina Valley.
Donna Hunter, a Kidney Walk Champion and member of the organizing committee, knows the journey firsthand.
“The Kidney Walk was introduced to me because my father, Howard, battled polycystic kidney disease,” she shared. “He was on dialysis for seven years, and that experience changed our lives.”
Hunter’s family has been walking since the event first began over a decade ago. This year, she helped organize and personally raised over $1,000.
“I’m not an expert,” she said, “but I know the toll kidney disease takes. That’s why we raise funds—to support those who are still in the fight and to help keep services local.”
“We’re here for them” – Building awareness and support
For Jemma Ignacio, Coordinator of Marketing, Communications & Events for the Kidney Foundation of Manitoba, the event was her first walk in Morden, and a reminder of why she believes so strongly in the foundation’s work.
“Kidney disease is a silent epidemic,” said Ignacio. “It could happen to anybody, at any age, and you might not know you have it until it’s too late. That’s why events like this are so important—to raise awareness and to make sure people know they’re not alone.”
Ignacio emphasized that the Kidney Foundation receives no government funding. All support comes from donor dollars raised at events like the walk.
“Every dollar raised helps fund peer support groups, financial assistance, and education,” she explained. “None of these services cost anything for patients—but they can be life-changing. And it’s all possible because of this community.”
Local kindness on full display
Throughout the walk, there were heartfelt moments of spontaneous giving. Some people simply passing by the park stopped to ask what was happening—and donated on the spot.
“That kindness means the world,” said Hunter. “In a time where there’s so much negativity, seeing strangers walk up and give—it restores your faith. That’s what this walk is all about.”
Still time to support
The organizers are thrilled to announce that the fundraising total from the event is over $8,000!
“If you couldn’t make it out to the walk, it’s not too late,” said Ignacio. “You can still donate online at kidneywalk.ca.”
Hunter added a final note of encouragement:
“If you’ve never been personally affected by kidney disease, chances are someone you care about has or will be. Support, conversation, and compassion make all the difference.”
About the Kidney Walk
The Kidney Walk empowers Canadians to take action in the fight against kidney disease. Funds raised support real-time patient assistance, groundbreaking research, and strong advocacy. With over 4 million Canadians living with kidney disease, and no cure in sight, the need has never been greater.
Get tested. Get informed. Get involved.
“Talk to your doctor. Ask to have your kidneys checked. It’s a simple blood test,” said Ignacio. “The sooner you know, the sooner you can take control of your health.”
For more information or to donate, visit www.kidneywalk.ca.