BY EMILY SINGH
At the heart of every community lies a set of individuals who strive to uphold, maintain and preserve the health and wellbeing of its fellow members. On Saturday, May 7th 2016 The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s African Caribbean Kidney Association will be honoring the amazing individuals who have left their mark on the kidney community in Scarborough. This grand celebration will be taking place inside St. Peter and Paul Banquet Hall where two extraordinary individuals will be recognized for their outstanding dedication towards kidney health. The first of these honourees is Dr. Remi Ojo, the first president of the African Caribbean Kidney Association, along with Dr. Tabo Sikaneta.
Currently Dr. Tabo Sikaneta works as a nephrologist at The Scarborough Hospital and is also an active member at the African Caribbean Kidney Association. Dr. Sikaneta will also be delivering a special keynote presentation addressing how the community can better understand and ultimately prevent kidney disease. It is estimated that an average of 2.6 million Canadians are suffering from kidney disease or are at risk of developing it. The numbers speak for themselves, which is why the need for education and community discussion is so essential now more than ever.
According to their website, the African Caribbean Kidney Association is a volunteer Chapter of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Since its existence in 2010 it aims to support and empower the African Caribbean community through battling and preventing kidney disease and kidney failure. Two of the leading causes of kidney failure are diabetes, which accounts for thirty five per cent and renal vascular disease including high blood pressure, which is responsible for eighteen per cent.
As a developing community it is important to not only recognize but also celebrate the pioneers and trailblazers in our heath care system that go above and beyond their call of duty. They not only fulfill their duties as health care practitioners but also as leaders who strive to impact the lives of those around them.
For more information regarding tickets to support this amazing celebration please contact Co-Presidents Paulette Lewis at 647-504-9597 or Carlene McLean at 416 457-1014. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased at www.kidney.ca/ACKA.
