Annual walk raises awareness for kidney disease

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Hundreds of people are expected to walk in the 3rd annual South Bend Kidney Walk. 

It's happening at Central Park in Mishawaka. The walk starts at 10 a.m., but registration opens at 9 a.m. There is no registration fee, however donations are welcomed. 

As of Saturday morning, $51, 319.00 had been raised according to the walk's website. The money will go to the National Kidney Foundation, which helps patients in a variety of ways. 

“Everywhere from prevention and education, up to, the Indiana chapter does emergency financial support for families that need it," said volunteer Mary Liddell. 

Kidney disease is not curable, but can be prevented by making a few lifestyle changes. 

Kidney walk organizers say it's important for people to regularly see their doctor and keep track of their blood pressure and blood sugar. Regular exercise and following a healthy diet also lower your risk of developing kidney disease. 

At Saturday's walk, the National Kidney Foundation will have free risk screenings for walkers. 

“They do a quick blood pressure screening, body mass index and they kind of let you know where you might fall on that and make recommendations," said Liddell.