The Kidney Dialysis Foundation (KDF) hosted its first in-person ‘Got To Walk 2023: Illuminating Life’ charity walkathon event on 14 October, 2023, at OCBC Square, Singapore Sports Hub. The event united over 2,500 participants from diverse backgrounds who came together to walk for a noble cause. This charitable initiative raised more than S$500,000 to improve the lives of needy kidney patients in Singapore and to increase awareness about kidney health within the community.

‘Got To Walk 2023: Illuminating Life’ is a 5km walkathon event dedicated to securing crucial funds for needy kidney patients and to promoting widespread awareness about kidney health. Themed ‘Illuminating Life’, the event strives to ignite a chain reaction of positivity, touching countless hearts, and making a lasting difference that shines brightly in the lives of those affected by kidney disease.

The Guest of Honour for the event was Ms Tin Pei Ling (MP for Macpherson SMC), who was joined by a distinguished group including Ms Chan Hui Yuh, PBM (Advisor to Aljunied GRC), Mr Chan Soo Sen (KDF Director), Ms Sheena Gow (Senior Clinical Manager for AWAK Technologies), and Ms Jean Teo (Managing Director of Teo Heng KTV) as part of the flag-off party.

Before flagging off the race, Ms Tin addressed the crowd, expressing her gratitude to all the participants, event organisers, sponsors, and partners for their support in making this event possible. She also emphasised the significance of events like Got To Walk, in promoting an active lifestyle within the community, which is beneficial for kidney health and, also sheds light on the importance of helping underprivileged kidney patients in Singapore.

Participants of ‘Got To Walk 2023: Illuminating Life’ had a fulfilling experience as they embarked on a memorable 5km walkathon. The event commenced with a 1km beneficiary walk, followed by the 5km walkathon that was flagged off in four waves. Among the enthusiastic walkers was Ms Chan Hui Yuh, who shared her thoughts on the event, saying, “Walking alongside so many dedicated individuals with a common goal was an inspiring experience. It’s heartening to see the community come together for a good cause.”

‘Got To Walk 2023’ offered much more than just the walkathon. Families with children also enjoyed a delightful carnival atmosphere, complete with inflatable castles and engaging throwing games. Traditional games also brought a touch of nostalgia to the occasion. Moreover, a health screening station was set up to emphasise the importance of taking charge of one’s well-being.

The event highlights also included the official launch of the KDF Mascot, Kiddi. Kiddi’s personality includes being outgoing, resilient, and community oriented. Born on 14th October 2023 in Singapore, at KDF, Kiddi symbolises the sense of togetherness and community engagement required to champion kidney health and support needy kidney patients. The mascot’s bib number, 1234, signifies the dialysis treatment routine that kidney patients have to undergo, 12 hours of dialysis treatment a week, 3 times a week, and 4hrs for each dialysis session, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by kidney patients.

The event concluded with a lucky draw featuring ten attractive prizes, including the Teo Heng Wasuka Pro Jukebox Package (Sponsored by Teo Heng Trading Pte Ltd), an Apple iPad 10th Gen Wi-Fi 256GB (Sponsored by Singapore Pools), and a Dyson V12 Detect Slim Vacuum Cleaner (Sponsored by Singapore Pools), amongst other exciting prizes.

Mr Chan Soo Sen, Director of KDF said, “In the resounding success of ‘Got To Walk 2023: Illuminating Life,’ we witness the remarkable power of community, unity, and compassion.

Beyond brightening the lives of kidney patients, this event has shone a vital spotlight on the critical importance of kidney health within our society.”

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every participant, sponsor, and supporter who has played a pivotal role in making this event an outstanding achievement. ‘Got To Walk 2023’ has truly illuminated the path towards a healthier and more compassionate society,” he added.

The Kidney Dialysis Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to the generous sponsors of ‘Got To Walk 2023: Illuminating Life’. Our heartfelt thanks to our Keystone Sponsor, OdysseyRe, our Principal Sponsors, Lee Foundation and Shaw Foundation, and our Lead Sponsors, Tan Chin Tuan Foundation, Trailblazer Foundation, and Asia Chemicals Pte Ltd. We also extend our gratitude to our valued partners: One Heart Cleaning and Teo Heng Family KTV Studio. We are thankful to our Corporate Supporter, AWAK Technologies, and the event’s support from Tote Board and Singapore Pools. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in making this event a remarkable success.

Images: Kidney Dialysis Foundation Singapore