ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. – The National Kidney Foundation of Indiana Northwest will be holding their annual South Bend Kidney Walk on May 18 in Central Park.

Check in begins at 9:00 a.m., and the walk at 10:00 a.m.

The goal of the Kidney Walk is to raise awareness about kidney disease and organ donation, and to inform people of the importance of early screenings and living a healthy lifestyle.

The foundation reports that 8,500 people in Indiana seek treatment for kidney failure. They also estimate that over 30 million American adults will likely have chronic kidney disease at some point in their lives.

Mary Liddell, a Kidney Walk volunteer, says, “Participating in the Kidney Walk can help save lives.” She also added that raising awareness is important because “kidneys are essential to keeping us alive and healthy. When kidneys stop working, so do you.”

The Kidney Walk takes place in over 100 communities and more than 85,000 people have participated in raising $9 million dollars to support kidney patients.

Sponsors of the Kidney Walk include Fresenius Kidney Care, Harmony Healthcare IT, and Nephrology Physicians LLC.

Call 800-382-9971 or visit www.kidneywalk.org for more information regarding registration.