Community, connection, and kidney health: Rita’s Kidney Check experience

When Rita Cunningham, a member of the Katzie First Nation, heard about the Kidney Check screening happening at the Katzie Health Centre, it was word of mouth that got her through the door. A relative mentioned the event that morning, and she brought her daughter along and encouraged others in the community to attend. “If one person sees you or hears you talking about it, then they know I’m not BSing them. It’s a good thing to get done.”

The screening took place in late March 2025 in Katzie First Nation. Located in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, it’s one of 17 communities reached to date by the B.C. Kidney Check team. This work is vital—nearly one in three First Nations adults have kidney disease, yet many are unaware until it’s advanced. Kidney Check offers early detection and culturally safe care in the communities where it’s needed most. It’s a national program operating in B.C., Alberta, and Manitoba, with the B.C. program delivered in partnership with the First Nations Health Authority.

In B.C., each visit begins with a community lunch and learn—an opportunity to meet the Kidney Check team, learn about the screening process, and build trust. “These gatherings are rooted in relationship building and connection,” explains Catherine Turner, B.C. Kidney Check Coordinator. “We want people to feel comfortable and know we’re here for them.”

The screening itself is quick and easy: a finger poke, urine sample, and blood pressure check. “We use that information to calculate a person’s risk of potentially developing kidney failure in the next five years,” Turner says. “We ensure that there is ample time for people to ask questions about their own kidney health, and to provide resources to support them on their health journey.”

For Rita, whose niece is awaiting a kidney transplant, the screening was especially relevant. “You learn how to take care of your body by coming to these meetings, looking at the booklets, and talking to the team.”

She also emphasized how important it is that Kidney Check comes to communities like Katzie. “Half the people don’t have vehicles—so they probably wouldn’t go up [to a clinic]. But you’re right here. That makes a difference.”

Rita’s lasting words are a powerful reminder of why Kidney Check matters: “Just come and do it. It only takes a few minutes—and they can help you fix it sooner than later.” Her experience speaks to the heart of the program: empowering individuals through prevention, early detection, and culturally safe care—right in their own communities.

To learn more about the Kidney Check program, visit kidneycheck.ca or contact BC Kidney Check Coordinator Catherine Turner at Catherine.Turner@fnha.ca.