Guelph Musician James Gordon Raises His Voice for PKD

PRLog (Press Release) - Aug. 29, 2012 - The aim of the Walk is to raise public awareness and funds for Canadian research on Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), one of the most common – yet little known – life threatening genetic diseases, affecting more people than down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy and sickle cell anemia COMBINED.

James Gordon, co-founder of Guelph’s renowned Hillside Festival, is active in arts, civics, and environment related causes in the Guelph region, for which he received the Guelph Mayor’s Award in 2008.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity to use my voice to raise awareness about PKD,” Gordon said.

A prolific songwriter, he has released more than 30 albums as a solo artist or with the legendary folk trio “Tamarack”. Gordon is known for lyrics that paint poignant pictures of Canadian geography and culture, such as “Frobisher Bay”, or address social justice, heritage and environmental issues.  He has toured internationally and his songs also have been covered by other artists such as the Cowboy Junkies (“Mining for Gold”) and Melanie Doane.

Guelph Walk for PKD Coordinator Carrie Manson says she hopes Gordon's advocacy will encourage more people to come and join in the fun. “I am proud to be involved with the Foundation and the Hamilton-Guelph Chapter. This year, we’re trying to top the almost $5,000 we raised at our first Walk. The support of the community will help make it happen.”

Registration for the Walk takes place at Riverside Park in Guelph at noon on September 9. The five- kilometre Walk starts promptly at 1pm and will be followed by a post-walk BBQ for registered participants, courtesy of Money Direct. Raffle tickets for prizes such as a signed Dionn Phaneuf jersey and a one-year family pass to the Royal Ontario Museum also will be available.

For more information, visit http://www.endpkd.ca/Hamilton/index.asp .