Charleston Residents Walk for Kidney Health: A Day of Hope and Fundraising
In beautiful Charleston, South Carolina, locals swapped their everyday shoes for their best walking sneakers, ready to hit the pavement for a great cause. The National Kidney Foundation held a memorable Kidney Walk in the Lowcountry, and the turnout was nothing short of inspiring. Hundreds of people, including dedicated doctors, supportive businesses, and loving family members, gathered not just to stroll, but to raise awareness and funds for kidney health.
Walking with Purpose
With an incredible goal set in mind, participants from all walks of life banded together to help raise a substantial amount — over $45,000! This impressive sum will support the foundation’s efforts in kidney disease awareness and education, truly showcasing the power of community.
Sharing Personal Journeys
Among the walkers was Cassidy Grasela, a remarkable kidney transplant recipient, whose story added a personal touch to the day. Diagnosed with renal disease at just 19 years old, Cassidy’s life took a sudden turn while she was enjoying her college years. “I was on dialysis for 10 months because my kidneys had completely shut down at that point, so I was spending three days a week at a dialysis center,” she shared. Her determination and strength shone through as she recounted her experience.
A New Lease on Life
Fast forward to March 2021, Cassidy received her much-anticipated kidney transplant. “After being sick for over a year, literally the second I woke up from the transplant, I felt like so much energy and had a new sense of life,” she exclaimed. To mark her journey and give back to the community, Cassidy rallied her friends and family to participate in the walk, raising over $1,100 in the process. She emphasized how valuable staying active is in maintaining kidney health, and she encourages everyone to keep moving!
Doctors Walking for Their Patients
The event wasn’t just filled with inspirational stories from transplant recipients; kidney specialists were also striding alongside participants. Dr. Blake Weathersby from Charleston Nephrology took part in the walk, not just for himself but for “thousands of his patients.” He shared, “They’re some of the most brave people I’ve seen over the years.” His participation highlights the strong bond between patients and healthcare providers.
Advocacy and Awareness
Cassidy has transformed her journey into a powerful advocacy message. Reflecting on her past, she said, “That’s why I’m very involved and I advocate so much because it really can happen to anyone. I was a normal 19-year-old in college having fun, and suddenly I was tied to a hospital bed.” Her story serves as a reminder to others that kidney disease can affect anyone, regardless of age and lifestyle, and emphasizes the importance of education and support in the fight against kidney-related issues.
Every Step Counts
The Kidney Walk is not just an event; it’s a community coming together to share stories, generate funds, and foster awareness. From patients like Cassidy who have fought hard against the odds to the medical professionals who support them, everyone plays a role in this journey.
As residents of Charleston lace up their shoes for another year of walking, they are reminded that every step taken brings hope to those battling kidney diseases. Looking forward, participants and supporters are excited to see how their efforts will make a difference in the lives of countless individuals.
If you want to learn more about how to get involved or support kidney health initiatives, don’t hesitate to reach out and make a difference in your community!
