Make your stride count — Red Socks Run has arrived

Pull up those socks and run, walk, or ride 60km this October to help find the 1.8 million Australians unaware they have signs of kidney disease

Spring into October and make a difference by participating in the Red Socks Run to combat kidney disease.

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This year’s Red Socks Run is more than a physical challenge; it’s a show of solidarity. Participants can run, walk, or ride 60km individually or as part of a team across the month of October, supporting those affected by this debilitating disease.

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Around 2 million adult Australians are living with chronic kidney disease, but 1.8 million remain unaware they have the condition. That’s because people can lose 90% of their kidney function without experiencing symptoms.

Kidney Health Australia CEO, Chris Forbes, highlights the impact of kidney disease on patients, with many spending an average of 60 hours per month on life-sustaining dialysis machines.

Inspired by the cold feet experienced during dialysis treatment, participants are encouraged to purchase special Red Socks in support.

Kidney disease remains relatively unknown, and Mr Forbes calls on all Australians to raise awareness and contribute to fundraising efforts.

“The Red Socks Run 60km challenge is a way of stepping into the shoes, or socks, of someone sitting in a dialysis chair for 60 hours a week, and helps shine a stronger light on one of Australia’s least known chronic conditions,” he said.

Australian actress Michala Banas, who faced a major health scare as a child, emphasizes the importance of kidney health and urges everyone to request a simple kidney function test during their next doctor’s appointment.

“It’s such an easy thing to keep an eye on,” she said. “The next time you’re at a doctor’s appointment just ask them to check your kidney function. That kind of stuff can really save you down the line because once it’s too late, it’s really too late.”

On average, 66 Australians will die every day with kidney disease, for which there is no cure.

Turn your good health into the support that can save a life by signing up to the Red Sock Socks Run and buying a pair of limited-edition Red Socks to wear proudly throughout October.

To register for Kidney Health Australia’s Red Socks Run, visit redsocksrun.org.au.