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On National Kidney Day, the global campaign for 'kidney health for all' is being promoted worldwide, with a local charity ramping up its own fundraising plans to support local patients too.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect more than 850 million people worldwide and resulted in over 3.1 million deaths in 2019.
Presently, kidney disease ranks as the 8th leading cause of death globally, and if left unaddressed, it is projected to be the 5th leading cause of years of life lost by 2040.
The situation in Guernsey appears less stark because of the smaller numbers receiving treatment out of the small population, with the MSG confirming that 25 people receive dialysis treatment on a regular basis, one person is on peritoneal dialysis, and a further 34 people are being followed up with a working transplant.
Pictured: Kidney patients in Guernsey, and their families, are supported by the Guernsey Kidney Patients Association.
The Guernsey Kidney Patients Association offers a number of practical and financial support services for those people needing dialysis, as well as financial help to buy equipment and cover travel costs.
Among its fundraising efforts for this year is a 'Go Green for the GKPA' day today, with donations for wearing green clothing.
The charity is looking to hold a quiz night this year, along with a flag day.
One of its highest profile fundraisers will be by Ambrose Netherton who is climbing Kilimanjaro in August, alongside his partner and a friend.
He's funding the trip himself and is asking for donations to the charity.
Any corporate sponsors which back him can have their logo added to his kit to be photographed as he makes his way up, and then down the mountain.
Pictured: Ambrose Netherton will raise funds for the GKPA by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro this summer.
"We're really thankful to Ambrose for chosing us as his charity because he knows how much we want to get better known on the island," said Justine Gilman, Chair of the GKPA.
"The more we're out there, the better it will be."
As part of its efforts to support Mr Netherton's fundraising for the GKPA, the charity will be taking a stall at a Seafront Sunday this year, with plans for a treadmill to be set up so people can join him in his training.
You can sponsor Ambrose Netherton HERE with all funds going to the Guernsey Kidney Patients Association.
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