First Kidney Walk in Chateauguay

The recent implementation of a dialysis department in Chateauguay gave the desire of some patients in the region to create the first edition of the Chateauguay Kidney Walk which will enable the amassing of funds for the Canadian Kidney Foundation. The event will be held next July 12 on Ile St. Bernard.

The inauguration of the Chateauguay Dialysis Centre last September created a new inspiration for dialysis patients in the region, as they are happy to be able to receive this essential service close to home. « Quickly, the patients told us that they would love to organize a walk for the Foundation, » explained Dr. Dominique Dupuis, the doctor of the department and co-president of the event. The organizers of the Walk also solicited Christine Auger, daughter of Louise Auger who passed away in 2013 following kidney disease. The Chateauguay Dialysis Centre moreover was named in her memory to emphasize her numerous efforts to implement such a service in the Chateauguay region.

« When I came to the inauguration of the centre, I thought this would be the end of my mother's involvement, «  confided co-president Christine Auger. « Finally, it became the beginning for me. My mother worked so hard, that I couldn't say no. » The two co-presidents are inviting the population to walk five kilometres next June 12 on the paths of Ile St. Bernard to support the people affected by kidney disease. For Dr. Dupuis, this type of event is also a good occasion to sensitize people about kidney disease. 'These are diseases that are rather silent. Tthey are not as well known as other diseases because often the people find out that they have kidney problems when it becomes very serious, » she explains. The Canadian Kidney Foundation is financing the research, offers support programs and facilitates access to treatment.   

The reception and registration for the walk will be held at 9 a.m. on June 12 at the Pavillon de l'Ile. The walk is due to begin at 10 a.m. Donations can be made on-line at www.rein.ca/marchequebec.

(Translation Dan Rosenburg)

See also : Kidney donation to a stranger