Red Socks Run Returns with Bold New Challenge in October
- intouch Magazine
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Kidney Health Australia’s Red Socks Run is back in October, challenging people to take on a virtual journey that supports more than 15,000 Australians living on dialysis.
Far more than a fitness challenge, the Red Socks Run unites communities across the country, raising vital funds for research, support services and advocacy, while showing every person living with kidney disease that they’re not alone in their fight.
Funds raised in this year’s Red Socks Run will go directly to Kidney Health 4 Life – Kidney Health Australia’s revolutionary program connecting and supporting Australians through every stage of their kidney health journey.
In this year’s run, participants’ kilometres will be collectively logged on a virtual map connecting renal wards to remote community dialysis units, creating a powerful symbol of connection and hope.
“People on dialysis spend on average 60 hours a month hooked up to a machine just to stay alive,” said Kidney Health Australia Chief Executive Officer Chris Forbes.
“The Red Socks Run brings our community together to show them we’re fighting for a better future, while raising the funds we need to make that future a reality.”
Why Red Socks?
Our kidneys are vital for filtering blood and removing excess fluids from the body; they’re our natural filtration system. When they fail, your blood cannot be properly cleaned, and toxins accumulate in the body. There is no cure for kidney disease, which is often called the silent killer, because 90 per cent of kidney function can be lost before obvious symptoms appear. Once diagnosed with the disease, dialysis treatment is often the only option to keep many people alive. While on dialysis, your body will get very cold, particularly your feet, hence the Red Socks.
With kidney disease affecting 2.7 million Australians – many unaware of their condition until it’s too late – the Red Socks Run addresses urgent funding needs across multiple areas. Every dollar raised goes to:
Revolutionary research for breakthrough treatments and the bold aspiration to ‘End Dialysis by 2050’
The free Kidney Health Helpline which provides critical support and information to patients and families
Early-detection programs that could prevent thousands from ever needing dialysis
Vital support services helping people navigate life-changing kidney disease diagnoses
Patient advocacy, ensuring the kidney disease community’s voice is always heard
Research shows that dialysis treatment severely disrupts the lives of patients, with many spending 60 hours a month connected to machines, and the overwhelming majority experiencing significant life disruptions. Money raised through the Red Socks Run directly address these challenges.
The Red Socks Run’s approach makes meaningful fundraising participation completely accessible. Whether participants choose the suggested 60 kilometres throughout October or set their own goals, every step contributes to this year’s collective 30,000km target.
This year the digital platform will track real-time progress as Australia moves closer to connecting every renal unit nationwide, creating a powerful symbol of community support while generating funding for services and research.
“This fundraising campaign grows with our community's commitment,” Mr Forbes said.
“Whether you’re walking 10km or running 100km, every step raises money that directly impacts lives – from supporting someone receiving their first dialysis treatment to funding research that could eliminate the need for dialysis altogether.”
To thank participants for their fundraising efforts, the Red Socks Run will feature milestone rewards that celebrate community generosity. As participants reach fundraising targets, they receive special rewards through unique redemption codes – recognising the real impact their efforts make for people living with kidney disease. At $60, they will receive a pair of signature Red Socks Run sports socks, with other merchandise rewards at higher levels.
These rewards acknowledge that fundraising participants are changemakers, going the extra mile to support research and services that can transform lives across the kidney disease community.
The Reality of Kidney Disease in Australia
90% of kidney function can be lost without symptoms
1 in 7 Australians show signs of kidney disease
2.7 million Australians are affected, but 2.5 million are undiagnosed
1 in 6 hospitalisations are kidney-related
Find our more, visit https://fundraise.kidney.org.au/
