The annual event raises awareness and funds to fight kidney disease and show support for loved ones who are bravely living with the debilitating impacts of the disease.
"The shocking fact about kidney disease is that a person can lose up to 90 per cent of their kidney function before any symptoms are apparent," Kidney Health Australia chief executive Chris Forbes said.
"A person could be relatively fine one day and the next they could be in hospital facing a life sentence of continuous dialysis or on a transplant list, waiting for a suitable kidney donor.
"We need to prevent people reaching this point so the walks are a great opportunity to get the message out to the community to check their kidney health."
There's still time to register for the Shepparton walk on Sunday, 10.30 am to 12.30 pm, at bigredkidneywalk.org.au
A selfless gift
Shepparton's Allan O'Brien and Sharon Lindsay's story has been celebrated by the community.
The pair were only acquaintances because their daughters are best friends. But when Sharon heard about Allan's nine-year battle with kidney disease she decided to donate her kidney.
It wasn't a match for Allan, however, but he still received a kidney transplant from a stranger the same month hers also changed another person's life.
The following are some of the comments posted on our Facebook page:
Liss Thompson: It's so nice to see a great story in the news. Well done Sharon, what a tremendous gift to give. You always had a kind heart. I am so happy for you Allan.
Zaidee's Rainbow Foundation: The power of organ and tissue donation - live donors make a huge impact when this happens. Well done to you both especially Sharon what a massive gift to give.
Alonzo Acapella: She deserves what nobody can give her.
Sal Cross: That's beyond awesome Sharon. You always had a beautiful heart, but this is beyond words. The world needs more people like you.
Lea Jones: Amazing story of two awesome people.
Leanne Coote: Sharon, You are such a beautiful giving person.
Lucy Scott: What an inspirational story Bundy and Sharon. I wish you both a very healthy future.
Rosemary Turner: Oh my, how amazing! I've come across both of you in my life and you're both lovely people so this is great!
