Fundraiser Benefits Maui Programs for Kidney Health

By Robin G. Pilus

The Maui Branch of the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii will be holding a fundraiser,  “A Night at the Oscars” on Friday, February 11, 2011 from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the King Kamehameha Golf Club at 2500 Honoapi’ilani Highway in Waikapu.

The evening  features an opportunity for glamour,  Hollywood frivolity and dancing to the tunes of Jimmy Mac and the Kool Kats.  Guests are invited and encouraged to dress as their favorite actor or actress and treat themselves to some star-studded fun.  Heavy pupus, a no-host bar and a live and silent auction will also be featured.

“Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects 26 million Americans,” according to Colleen Welty, the Director for the Maui Branch of the Association.    “In Hawaii, 30% more residents suffer from CKD than on the Mainland.  In Hawaii, one in seven people have kidney disease, ” Welty said.

Kidneys perform five basic functions:   1) Removes water products; 2) Balances the body’s fluids;   3) Controls the production of red blood cells;  3) Releases hormones that regulates blood pressure and 4) Produces an active form of Vitamin D that promotes strong, healthy bones .

Frequently people do not know they have kidney disease until the very late stages of the disease when dialysis or transplantation may be the only option.   Dialysis is the artificial process of getting rid of waste and unwanted water from the blood. In-center dialysis takes 4-5 hours a day, 3 days a week.

 The National Kidney Foundation refers to kidney disease as a silent killer.  “People tend to take their kidneys for granted,” said Welty.

Advanced tickets are $50,  or can be purchased at the door for $65.   Proceeds of the fundraiser will support the annual free “Da Kidney Da Kine” Health Screening scheduled for April 30 at Queen Kaahumanu Mall as well as and ongoing classes on Maui that teach people proper kidney care.

For more information or to purchase event tickets visit the National  Kidney Foundation of  Hawaii or call 986-1900.