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We are incredibly proud of our Kidney March Family. Every conversation, every tweet, every facebook status, every newspaper feature and every shout out has helped spread the word about Kidney March far and wide, and for that, we are beyond grateful. We welcome you with open arms to be as Kidney March connected as possible. There is an amazing community with a strong voice out there and you can find it all here. Read our blog below for our News and Community updates and stay connected.

Want to get to know a few of your fellow Marchers? Visit our 'Marcher Stories' page under 'The Cause' to read more!

Kidney March in the News! To read and watch past news storries on our event and participants visit our 'Media' page.

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You’re invited to the Friends of the Foundation and Kidney March Alumni Reunion

Join us for an evening of inspiration and connection at the Friends of the Foundation & Kidney March Alumni Reunion. Plus, be among the first to hear about what’s in store for Kidney March 2026 as we return to the wilderness for 3 days and 2 nights. Reunite with your fellow Kidney Marchers, be the first to watch the Kidney March 2025 video, enter for fantastic door prizes, cheer on the winners of this year’s Top Fundraising awards, and celebrate another heroic year.

DATE: Saturday, October 18, 2025

LOCATION: Deerfoot Inn and Casino, Sundance Ballroom, 11500 35 St SE #1000, Calgary, AB T2Z 3W4

AGENDA:

6:30 pm: Doors open for cocktails and snacks.

7:00 pm: Program starts

Followed by more snacks and time to connect after the program concludes.



RSVP to sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca

Meet your Kidney March Presenting Sponsor, Otsuka Canada Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Kidney Foundation of Canada with Otsuka Sponsorship Sign

We’re thrilled to welcome back Otsuka Canada Pharmaceutical Inc. returning as our Presenting Sponsor for Kidney March 2025. For nearly a decade, they have supported our walks in many ways, and we are grateful for their commitment to research and improving the lives of patients. Their level of support is monumental in helping Kidney March make the most significant impact possible for those in our community living with kidney disease and the future of kidney disease.

“On behalf of myself and my team, we are excited to be the Presenting Sponsor at the Kidney March again this year,” said Michael Laranjo, President & General Manager of Otsuka Canada Pharmaceutical Inc. “The Kidney Foundation of Canada is dedicated to supporting patients across the country and we are happy to support such a great initiative that will increase awareness and research around kidney disease.”

Otsuka employees share a unique and tireless passion to help enhance the health and quality of human life around the world. Their support goes beyond sponsorship; over the years multiple Otsuka employees have also marched the full 100 km alongside you. 

Be sure to extend a warm welcome back and a big thank you to Otsuka Canada Pharmaceutical Inc. for their support!

What to Expect for Day Zero 2025

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“What should I expect on Day Zero?”

Here’s a brief run-down. 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 6, 2025 

All Marchers and Crew participating in-person for Kidney March MUST attend the Kidney March Orientation and package pick up day. Here you will receive all the important information you will need to know to March and Crew for Kidney March. Virtual Marchers and Crew will receive their virtual participant packages by mail in advance of Day Zero.

The Day Zero Orientation will begin at The Kidney Foundation Office, located at 6007 1A Street SW, Calgary AB and run between 3:30 pm and 5:00 pm. Once you’re done going through the various information stations at the office, we will move over to Prairie Dog Brewing (just up the street) for your lanyard pick up, complimentary food and pop, games and Kidney-O-Kee with your Kidney March family, starting at 5:00 pm.

Day Zero Agenda at a glance

3:30 – 5:00pm  Visit the Kidney Foundation Office for you information and package pickup stations. Once you complete all your stations, you can head over to Prairie Dog Brewing for your lanyard, some food, games and KIdney-O-Kee.

5:00 pm  The Kidney Foundation Office will close and Kidney-O-Kee will start at Prairie Dog Brewing

8:00 pm  We will say good-bye for the evening so you can rest up for Kidney March the next day.

How to get to Day Zero

The Kidney Foundation of Canada Office – 6007 1A Street Sw, Calgary AB

Parking – Free street parking is available around The Kidney Foundation Office. 

 

Transit – You may choose to join us by taking transit. The closest train station is CHINOOK STATION. From there the Kidney Foundation Office is about a 6 minute walk north on 1A street SW.

 

Prairie Dog Brewing is located at 105D 58th Avenue sw, Calgary AB

Kidney-o-kee

It’s a great chance to meet or reconnect with your fellow Kidney Marchers and Crew! Our Kidney March team will be available to answer any questions you may have on Day Zero. You can also reach out to kidneymarch@kidney.ca

You’re invited to the 2025 Kidney March Closing Ceremonies and BBQ Celebration

Help us cheer on this years Marchers as they cross the finish line and join us for a BBQ celebration with live entertainment. 

The Kidney March Closing Ceremonies will be hosted at the Millarvillle Racing & Agricultural Society located at: 306097 192 St W, Millarville, AB T0L 1K0).

We anticipate Marchers will start to cross the finish line at about 3:00pm onward. After cheering in every Marcher at the finish line, all Marchers, Crew, loved ones, and supporters will celebrate at our BBQ and Closing Ceremony, with Musical Entertainment to follow.

There will be ample free parking at Millarville, and carpooling is encouraged.
*Reminder *Guests and supporters are not permitted on the route, AND pets are not allowed on the grounds at the Millarville Racetrack for the closing ceremony and BBQ. Only trained Service Animals are permitted. This is for everyone, including your animal’s, safety.

Want to Enjoy the BBQ meal with the Marchers and Crew?

Joining the festivities is free, but for all family, friends, and supporters that want to enjoy the BBQ meal they must purchase a meal ticket. All registered Marchers and Crew will receive one complimentary BBQ meal ticket. To help us plan and reduce food waste, we encourage all guests to buy their tickets in advance of the BBQ.

• Advance tickets: $15 each (available until August 25, 2025
• Day-of tickets: $25 each (limited quantity available)
• One ticket per person is required.

Purchase BBQ Tickets Here

 

Meet your Finish Line and Closing Ceremonies Sponsor, Mattamy Homes

We are proud to welcome back Mattamy Homes as our Finish Line and Closing Ceremony sponsor for Kidney March 2025.

Since joining the Kidney March family in 2017, Mattamy Homes has been a dedicated Lead Sponsor. Over the years, their Alberta Division has contributed thousands of dollars, playing an instrumental role in propelling the March forward.

Mattamy Homes takes an active role in Kidney March, you’ll see their smiling faces at the finish line helping to hand out your finishing shirts and cheering you on as you celebrate this years accomplishments after the March.  Many of their employees have been impacted by kidney disease and some have personally completed the 100KM challenge.

Not only is community one of Mattamy Homes’ core values but the organization truly believes that having a positive impact in the community is their responsibility both as a business and as a homebuilder. Through their grass-roots, employee-driven initiatives, corporate MattamyCares program, grand-scale company donations and the generous philanthropy of our Founder’s charitable organization, the Peter Gilgan Foundation, they come together like family to actively support local and global charitable organizations to create vibrant, healthy communities. Mattamy Homes’ commitment to Kidney March has had a significant impact, creating more funding to support vital research and patient needs. 

“Kidney March embodies the spirit of community, and at Mattamy Homes, that’s a value we live every day. We’re honoured to continue supporting this incredible event and proud to stand alongside those making a difference in the lives of people affected by kidney disease.” – Amanda Kemp, Senior Manager, Marketing for Mattamy’s Alberta Division.

Thank you Mattamy Homes for being a part of Kidney March over the years

 

FUN FACT

Mattamy has also sponsored many of the pathways we use to train on in our communities. In Calgary, you will find the Rotary Mattamy Greenway, a 145-KM pathway system that circles the entire city. Together, with Calgary’s existing pathways they form one of the largest pathway networks in the world with over 1000kms of trails.

Check it out and plan a route at:
 https://www.parksfdn.com/greenway 

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Category: General
The Friends of the Foundation and Kidney March Alumni Reunion


October 18, 2025

Join us for an evening of inspiration and connection at the Friends of the Foundation & Kidney March Alumni Reunion. Plus, be among the first to hear about what’s in store for Kidney March 2026 as we return to the wilderness for 3 days and 2 nights. Reunite with your fellow Kidney Marchers, be the first to watch the Kidney March 2025 video, enter for fantastic door prizes, cheer on the winners of this year’s Top Fundraising awards, and celebrate another heroic year.


LOCATION: Deerfoot Inn and Casino, Sundance Ballroom, 11500 35 St SE #1000, Calgary, AB T2Z 3W4

AGENDA:


6:30 pm: Doors open for cocktails and snacks.


7:00 pm: Program starts


Followed by more snacks and time to connect after the program concludes.

RSVP to sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca

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1 week ago

SAVE THE DATEYou are invited to the Friends of the Foundation & Kidney March Alumni Reunion! Whether you are a past or present Marcher, Crew member, volunteer, donor, supporter, or part of the kidney community - this night is for you! Be among the first to watch the premiere of the Kidney March 2025 video.Get excited for Kidney March 2026, as we will be returning to our 3 day, 100km format.Enter for door prizes - see who won the Top Fundraising awards - and help us celebrate everyone who makes Kidney March possible.Saturday, October 18, 2025, 6:30 pm MT at the Deerfoot Inn and Casino - Calgary, AB . Doors open at 6:30 pm, Program starts at 7:00 pm.Please RSVP for yourself and your guests to Sarah.Lawrence@kidney.ca by October 10th, 2025. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

We are deeply grateful to our Presenting Sponsor of Kidney March 2025, Otsuka Pharmaceuticals Inc. Your generous support, unwavering commitment, and enthusiasm for Kidney March over the past 11 years is greatly appreciated. Thank you for supporting kidney disease research, organ donation initiatives, and programming for millions of Canadians living with or at risk of developing kidney disease. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

The Art of Baggage Handling: A life's work – “Suddenly the Kidney March Magic showed up… I found myself hoping the day would never end” Hear the voices behind Kidney March — real stories of strength, struggle, and purpose told by those who lived them. This digital story was created by the storyteller Dennis titled "The Art of Baggage Handling: A life's work"” as part of the ‘Marching Through Stories’ project in 2025. “Marching Through Stories” is a study conducted by the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Nursing with support from The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Southern Alberta Branch, exploring experiences and impacts of Kidney March through digital storytelling. The project aims to contribute to the understanding of how such events foster community, support, and advocacy. The project provides the kidney community a unique opportunity to share their personal experiences related to chronic kidney disease.Hear other stories and learn more about Why We March at kidneymarch.ca/marcher-stories/ ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

Why March - “I kept going, head down… all the while saying to myself, I’m not here for me…”Hear the voices behind Kidney March — real stories of strength, struggle, and purpose told by those who lived them. This digital story was created by the storyteller Kris titled "Why March?" as part of the ‘Marching Through Stories’ project in 2025. Content Warning: This video contains medical scenes that may include depictions of injury, emergency procedures, and hospital environments. It also features flashing lights and visual effects that may affect viewers with photosensitivity. Viewer discretion is advised, particularly for individuals who may be sensitive to medical imagery or light-triggered conditions such as epilepsy. “Marching Through Stories” is a study conducted by the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Nursing with support from The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Southern Alberta Branch, exploring experiences and impacts of Kidney March through digital storytelling. The project aims to contribute to the understanding of how such events foster community, support, and advocacy. The project provides the kidney community a unique opportunity to share their personal experiences related to chronic kidney disease.Hear other stories and learn more about Why We March at kidneymarch.ca/marcher-stories/ ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

The Kidney Foundation is proud to support the EQUity In Predicting Re-hospitalization among people with Chronic Kidney Disease (EQUIP Re-CKD) research project in partnership with Canadian Institutes of Health Research.Led by Dr. Meghan Elliott from the University of Calgary, the EQUIP Re-CKD project seeks to understand and address the health inequities that may increase a patient’s risk of re-hospitalization – which kidney patients experience at rates nearly 5 times higher than people without kidney disease. Overall, the project aims to develop personalized care strategies to reduce the risk of re-hospitalization among patients with CKD, improving the health and quality of life for all people living with kidney disease. Learn more about the EQUIP Re-CKD project at kidney.ca/Research/Supported-Research/EQUIP-Re-CKD-Project ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

The Gift - "Maybe my story was really inspiring..."Hear the voices behind Kidney March — real stories of strength, struggle, and purpose told by those who lived them. This digital story was created by the storyteller Grace titled "The Gift” as part of the ‘Marching Through Stories’ project in 2025.Content Warning: This video contains medical imagery. Viewers may encounter scenes involving hospitals, and medical equipment. These visuals may be distressing to some individuals, particularly those sensitive to medical content. Viewer discretion is advised. “Marching Through Stories” is a study conducted by the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Nursing with support from The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Southern Alberta Branch, exploring experiences and impacts of Kidney March through digital storytelling. The project aims to contribute to the understanding of how such events foster community, support, and advocacy. The project provides the kidney community a unique opportunity to share their personal experiences related to chronic kidney disease. Hear other stories and learn more about Why We March at kidneymarch.ca/marcher-stories/ ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

For 16 years, people living with kidney disease have been part of the Kidney March Patient Exercise Program—They have been walking, biking and participating in special kidney exercise programs. Many people pedaled on special bikes while doing their dialysis treatments to complete their own 100km+ journeys.This year, some of these inspiring patients and staff were with us for the Closing Ceremonies. Special shout-outs to:👟Mel – 976.6 km over 63.25 hours of biking during dialysis👟Jim – 602.5 km of biking during dialysis and treadmill workouts at homeYour dedication is incredible. Thank you for joining us and showing what perseverance looks like! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

Your Photos are here! Relive the 2025 experience and see all the smiling faces caught by this year's photographer McKerrell Photography . Check out the full Gallery at: www.mckerrellphotography.com/Client/2025-Kidney-March-External/n-5gjqm3A heartfelt thank you to our 2025 Photo & Video Sponsor Sheni's Auto-Trend!Your dedication to Kidney March shines brightly—not only through your generous sponsorship, but also through your incredible involvement by both Marching and Crewing. Your passion and support have made a meaningful impact. Thank you. ... See MoreSee Less
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