A Dunkirk man is gearing up to lead the way in raising awareness about kidney disease once again. Jeff Griffin and his team are preparing to participate in the Walk For Kidney Health 5K, organized by the Kidney Foundation Of Western New York. The event is scheduled for this Sunday at the Lakeside Lawn of the Buffalo Outer Harbor. Griffin, along with a group of 18 to 20 individuals, is dedicating this walk to his late wife, Margaret, who lost her battle to Calciphylaxis in 2022. Calciphylaxis, a rare and incurable disease, has prompted Griffin to champion this cause every year. The Walk for Kidney Health aims to not only raise awareness about kidney disease but also to pay tribute to those affected by it, celebrate organ donors, and commemorate those who have succumbed to the illness.
The fundraising efforts, including sponsorships, team contributions, and individual donations, contribute to the outreach, education, patient support, and advocacy programs run by the Kidney Foundation of WNY. To date, Griffin's team has managed to raise $2,603.51 for the cause. Despite the lack of a cure for Calciphylaxis and the scarcity of research on the disease, Griffin highlights a concerning trend in the rising mortality rates associated with it.
Griffin speaks from personal experience, having battled kidney cancer since 2014 and underwent a kidney removal surgery last year. While medical advancements like the recent successful pig kidney transplant offer hope, Griffin stresses that the prevalence of kidney disease continues to escalate. With over 100,000 individuals awaiting a kidney transplant nationwide, Griffin emphasizes the critical importance of this vital organ.
For individuals grappling with kidney-related issues, Griffin encourages seeking assistance from the Kidney Foundation, especially for those struggling with dialysis or unable to work due to their condition. Dialysis, a demanding treatment regimen, can take a toll on individuals, both physically and emotionally. Griffin reflects on his late wife's journey with dialysis, underscoring the challenges faced by patients reliant on this life-sustaining procedure.
Locally, Griffin recommends ECMC in Buffalo and UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pa., as reputable healthcare facilities for individuals seeking kidney-related treatments. Those in need of a transplant or willing to donate can explore the transplant programs offered by these hospitals. In memory of his beloved wife, Griffin continues to lead the charge in advocating for kidney health awareness and support for those affected by kidney disease.