Knocking Out Kidney Disease

Dr. Faisal Rehman, Program Director for the Division of Nephrology at London Health Sciences Centre, loves a good challenge. In 2002, Dr. Rehman had diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure - three risk factors he knew could lead to the kidney disease he sees in his patients every day. So Dr. Rehman set about getting healthier, dropping 80 pounds from his 240-pound frame by eating properly and getting involved in boxing aerobics. Within six months, he was no longer diabetic and his blood pressure and cholesterol were within normal levels.

When tasked with the challenge of increasing funding for the Kidney Clinical Research Unit at Victoria Hospital (it currently exists on grants), Dr. Rehman knew he wanted to highlight the link he had personally experienced between good health and managing risk factors for kidney disease.

Dr. Rehman connected with some of his contacts in the boxing world and, working with London Health Sciences Foundation and professional event organizers, the Showdown in the Downtown charity event was launched.

The September 25, 2009 spectacle held at the London Convention Centre featured five fights showcasing the best amateur boxers from Canada and the United States. Special guest, George Chuvalo, attended the evening's festivities along with 500 boxing fans who took part in a silent auction and dinner to help raise funds for the Kidney Clinical Research Unit. One of the highlights of the night featured Dr. Rehman himself who boxed in one of the bouts.

Event organizers hoped to raise $80,000 and came away with over $116,000 directed towards the Research Unit. The funds raised will support the 70 active clinical trials currently underway focusing on improving the lives of patients who suffer from kidney disease. Plans are already underway to host this event at the same time next year.