Lou Russell

My Red Socks Run for Kidney Health

Three Years Strong - Running for Dad and All Kidney Warriors.

This October marks my third year lacing up for the Red Socks Run! Anyone who knows me knows running isn’t exactly my forte! But some causes are bigger than our comfort zones.

Fourteen years ago, our family’s world changed when Dad needed a kidney transplant. We were incredibly blessed that Marg, his wife and our stepmum, was able to donate one of her kidneys through the Living Donor Program. That gift didn’t just save Dad’s life - it gave our entire family more precious years together.

Losing Dad has reminded me daily how fortunate we were that he never had to endure the gruelling reality of dialysis - 60 hours every single month that so many kidney patients face. His transplant gave him freedom, dignity and quality time with his family that dialysis couldn’t provide.

Dad was passionate about Kidney Health Australia and proudly served on their board for years. He believed deeply in their mission because he lived the difference their support provides. When families are navigating transplants, KHA’s resources - like the Kidney Transplant Metropolitan Houses - kept us close to hospital during Dad’s recovery - absolute lifelines.

So here I am again, preparing to walk/jog/run/survive 60km throughout October because 66 Australians lose their lives to kidney disease every single day. That’s 66 families who won’t get the extra time with their loved ones.

Every dollar raised funds life-saving research and provides crucial support to kidney patients and their families during their darkest hours. Dad would be cheering me on (probably laughing at my running form too), knowing that each step honours his memory while helping other families facing this journey.

Thank you for supporting this cause that’s so close to our hearts. Dad’s legacy lives on through every donation, every step, and every life saved through the incredible work of Kidney Health Australia.

With gratitude,

Lou