Walk raises money for incurable kidney disease
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Updated: July 17, 2009 11:05 AM
Nine years ago, Doug Hobbs' brother gave him a wonderful gift.
He gave him a kidney.
Hobbs suffers from diabetes, the leading cause of kidney disease.
He's the vice-president of the British Columbia branch of the Kidney Foundation and is hoping the upcoming Gift of Life Walk in Victoria will help raise more money for research.
"Our goal is to help improve the lives of people affected by kidney disease, help prevent the growth of this incurable disease and promote organ donation," he said.
Current research has already developed better anti-rejection drugs so there's a lesser chance of organ rejection after transplant.
About 145,000 people live with undiagnosed kidney disease in B.C., and Hobbs said the numbers are rising because of increased rates of diabetes.
"It's one of those (diseases) that's quiet, but extremely severe."
The Gift of Life Walk happens Aug. 9 at Fisherman's Wharf Park on Erie Street.
To donate or sign up for the two or five kilometre walk, please visit www.kidney.bc.ca.
lweighton@vicnews.com
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