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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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5 Amazing Prize Draws all November Long

Kidney March and our supporters want to say thank you to those who have already committed to Kidney March 2026 and we hope others will join the excitement too! This November, we will be hosting 5 Amazing Prize Draws exclusively for participants who have registered early for Kidney March 2026. 

Here’s how it works:

Each registered participant for Kidney March 2026 will automatically receive five prize draw ballots. You can use them however you like! Spread them out across five different prizes, or put all five ballots toward one prize you really want!

We will be drawing prizes at random all through November, leading up to the Trailblazer Registration Deadline on December 1st. You never know which prize will be drawn next, so register early and get your ballots in so you don’t miss out!

 

Want even more chances to win?

Build your team or get others to join you! Invite your friends, family, and coworkers to join the Kidney March adventure with you! When someone you invite registers for 2026 (as a Marcher or Crew member), you’ll earn 20 bonus draw entries. And here’s the best part, they can invite others too and earn more entries of their own! Tell us who you invited, and once their registration is confirmed, you’ll earn your bonus entries.
Disclaimer: Bonus entries apply only when the person you invite is a new 2026 Marcher or Crew member (They cannot be already registered. They do not have to be a first-time participant).

Get Social! Follow @KidneyMarch and watch for our November Prize posts. Then tag a friend on Facebook or Instagram in the post comments, mention which prize you’d like to enter the draw for and you’ll automatically earn a ballot for that prize!
(Registered participants only. Example: @tagfriend – Draw Prize #1)


The Five Incredible Prizes Up for Grabs!

Prize Option #1  – Escape Room Gift Voucher for up to 4 players

Grab your friends and dive into an Escape Room adventure! You’ll have one hour to solve clues, uncover secrets, and make your daring escape before the clock runs out. Thank you to Arcadia Adventures for donating this fun experience valued at $110!

 

Prize Option #2 – 1 of 4, 60 minute massages

Take a break, relax and unwind, thanks to Dr. Josip from Momentum Health and Wellness. Enjoy a 60 minute massage, there are 4 chances for you to win! Valued at approx $120 each.

 

Prize Option #3 – Head to Toe Kidney March 

Show off your Kidney March pride and get decked out in Kidney March gear. Take home a new toque, tank top, sweater, leggings or sweats and shoelaces. Valued at $160. 

 

Prize Option #4 – 24 Pack of Tall Boys

Get ready to host for the holidays with a variety pack of 24 tall boy beers brewed by of our friends at Prairie Dog Brewing. Valued at $110. 

 

Prize Option #5 – $100 Winners Giftcard

Get a jump on your holiday shopping or treat yourself with a $100 giftcard from Winners! 


Ready to submit your ballots?

Let us know what prize(s) caught your eye. All registered participants for 2026 automatically have 5 ballots to use. Reach out to kidneymarch@kidney.ca to submit your entries. 

 

The Fine Print

Prize Limit: Participants may enter multiple prize draws; however, each individual is eligible to win only one prize. If a participant’s name is drawn more than once, they will receive the first prize they are drawn for, and subsequent draws will be re-selected to ensure fairness.

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

slideshow-1

“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

 

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7 days ago

Be sure to submit your vacation time request with your work to secure the time off for Kidney March. We recommend taking a couple extra days after the March for some well deserved rest and recuperation. The Delta Hotel Calgary South is offering a discounted room rate for all Kidney March participants. We suggest booking a room at the Delta on Thursday, September 10 (Day Zero). We will depart from the hotel in the morning to the Opening Ceremony on Friday, September 11 (Day One).Visit our "Sponsor and Supporter Discounts for Participants" on the Kidney March website for the booking link kidneymarch.ca/manuals/Book your room by Wednesday, August 5, 2026, to receive the discounted rate of $199 CAD per night. Valid for bookings from Tuesday, September 8 to Sunday, September 13, 2026. ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

👣 Every step of Kidney March tells a story - of courage, hope, and determination.If you’ve marched before, you know the feeling; the friendships, the purpose, the exhilaration of 100 kilometers walked to honour those living with kidney disease. And if you’ve never marched, this is your moment to join a movement that changes lives. You’ll be part of a community that believes in hope, healing, and a future free from kidney disease.Whether you’re walking again or walking for the first time, adventure awaits. Register today www.kidneymarch.ca ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

THROWBACK THURSDAYToday we are bringing it back to the very beginning... enjoy our 2010 Kidney March slideshow. Thank you to those who have been with us since the very start, and all those who have joined us along the way. Are you ready to take on this 100km journey? Visit kidneymarch.ca and register today. ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

✨🎄 That’s a Wrap! 🎄✨Our Tinkle Bell has had her fun,With tricks and swaps ‘til days were done.You searched each scene from high to low,And found the changes - way to go!She’s packing up for her sleigh-ride flight,Back to the Pole by Christmas night.She leaves a wink, a wave, a cheer -“Thanks for the laughs, I’ll see you next year!”🎁🔍 Thanks to all who played along,Your sleuthing skills were truly strong!Until next time, keep spirits bright -Happy holidays and warm delight!Congratulations Kim! We will be reaching out to you shortly! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

📚✨Tink is reading, calm and still,But something’s changed - against her will!Is it pages? Props? You'll have to sort,Can YOU spot what’s changed around the impact report?Think you know what's missing, changed or added? Email sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca or send us a private message on social with your guess. If you’re correct, we’ll add your name into the draw for a special prize. The winner will be drawn December 17th! Good Luck!! ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

🧥🧣Dressed in style from head to toe,But wardrobe swaps can come and go!Tink changed something - maybe two…Can YOU spot what’s no longer true?Can you spot the difference between the photos? Think you know what's missing or added? Email sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca or send us a private message on social with your guess. If you’re correct, we’ll add your name into the draw for a special prize. The winner will be drawn December 17th! Good Luck!! ... See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

THROWBACK THURSDAY - 👣WHY WE MARCH: With zero hesitation. Living organ donors are heroes. Chris’s friend Jarrett wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for Chris’s incredible gift of life—a kidney donation years ago. They March together to celebrate their amazing friendship and the gift of life. Deciding to become a living kidney donor is one of the biggest decisions you can make. As Chris says, “You’re never going to do something bigger in your life.”Every year, far too many people lose their lives to kidney disease. Although there is no cure yet, a kidney transplant is often the best treatment. The success rate for a transplant from a living donor is high: 90–95% of these kidneys are working well after one year and they last on average 15 to 20 years. Unfortunately, the number of people in need of a donor kidney far outweighs the number of available donors. That’s why The Kidney Foundation and Kidney March work hard to amplify advocacy efforts and help fund vital programs and research for organ and tissue donation.Join the fight for those we know and all those we don’t who are battling kidney disease. Join us for Kidney March 2026. Visit kidneymarch.ca and register today. ... See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

🖼️🎨Tink posed proudly inside a frame,But now the picture’s not the same!A sneaky switch, a tiny tweak…Spot the difference - take a peek!Think you know what's missing or added? Email sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca or send us a private message on social with your guess. If you’re correct, we’ll add your name into the draw for a special prize. The winner will be drawn December 17th! Good Luck!! ... See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

🎄✨Tink has been climbing our Christmas tree,But something’s changed… what could it be?Baubles, tinsel, lights that glow—Spot the difference, let us know!Think you know what's missing or added? Email sarah.lawrence@kidney.ca or send us a private message on social with your guess. If you’re correct, we’ll add your name into the draw for a special prize. The winner will be drawn December 17th! Good Luck!! ... See MoreSee Less
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