A local event in St. Louis, Missouri, is making strides in raising awareness about kidney disease, coinciding with National Kidney Month in March. The Kidney Walk St. Louis, organized by the development director Kourtney Cash, aims to shed light on the often overlooked risk of kidney disease.

Cash emphasized the silent nature of the disease, with many individuals unaware of their condition until it reaches advanced stages. Shockingly, 33% of people are at risk, yet most remain oblivious to this fact.

The event commenced at Westport Plaza, drawing attention to the pressing need for funds and increased awareness surrounding kidney disease. It was highlighted that the current waitlist for kidney transplants is so extensive that it could fill Busch Stadium twice over.

One participant, Yelena Gass-Bronstein, shared her personal plea for a kidney donation, stressing the life-changing impact it can have. Gass-Bronstein emphasized that while many individuals possess two healthy kidneys, they only require one for a healthy life, making them potential donors.

Notably, this year’s event has already raised over $83,000, a significant contribution that will directly benefit patients and support vital kidney disease research.