NKF holds first public fundraiser since 2005

In its first public fundraiser since a high-profile scandal in 2005, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) raised $400,000 on Sunday to buy artificial kidneys for patients.

It did so through a carnival, Lighting Up Lives, at the Marina Barrage, which saw a turnout of about 20,000 corporate sponsors, school volunteers and members of the public.

An artificial kidney, also called a dialyser, is needed during each dialysis treatment. It removes waste products and cleans the patient's blood during treatment. Each artificial kidney costs $30 and can be used for only about a month by each patient.

Speaking at the sidelines of the event, chairman Gerard Ee said of the fundraising target: "It is quite modest, we're not going for the multimillions...I think we must be measured - there are many charities in Singapore here, all needing donation dollars."

Source: Straitstimes

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