Minnesotans come together to raise money to fight kidney disease

ST. PAUL – The National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. The biggest fundraiser of the year took place in St. Paul on Saturday at Allianz Field.

It is a community of support and advocacy designed to ensure that every person living with kidney disease has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.

“It’s just a huge support system that we love being a part of,” Josh Bauer said.

Josh Bauer and his family know only too well how important this community is. They received support when Coyle was diagnosed with kidney disease in the womb. He had a transplant when he was one and a half years old and now, at six years old, he is a happy boy.

“Since his transplant he has been a completely normal boy, he is full of energy, he attracts everyone’s attention and is always on the move,” says Kayla Bauer.

Hundreds flocked to the stadium to take part in the fundraiser, many taking part in the walk for the first time.

“It’s been 17 years since I had my kidney transplant and I was kind of sitting in the stands and this year I said this is my year to tell my story and raise my awareness,” Brandyn Megir said.

Brandyn needed a kidney transplant and her boyfriend Mario was her donor. It won her heart; You are married now.

Their team, Keys for Kidney, consists of Colwell Banker, Keller Williams and REMAX agents working together for the cause.

“Just to build a community in the real estate industry,” Megir said.

NFK has a national partner, Links, Inc., to help raise awareness in communities disproportionately affected by kidney disease.

“African Americans are largely untreated for diabetes, which leads to chronic kidney disease. Part of Link and its 299 chapters’ nationwide efforts is to convey the message of the importance of taking care of one’s health,” said Lezlie Taylor.

The kidney community united in the fight for awareness about a disease that one in seven Americans know nothing about.

Saturday’s Kidney Walk nearly reached its goal of $178,000. All money raised stays here in Minnesota.