BOSTON -- One in eight adults in Massachusetts are living with chronic kidney disease and most don’t even know it.

The National Kidney Foundation of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Vermont is asking the public to help in the fight against chronic kidney disease.

The foundation is hosting the 14th Annual Boston Kidney Walk at the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston on Sunday, May 18 at 9 a.m.

"Twenty-six million people have chronic kidney disease. Millions more are at risk" said Linda Plazonja, Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation’s MA, RI, NH and VT affiliate. "The Kidney Walk will draw attention to the importance of early detection for those at risk while raising funds for kidney patients and their families and increasing awareness of organ donation and transplantation."

More than 2,000 participants are expected at this year’s event.

Walkers are invited to join in the fun by walking individually or by forming a team. The walk is a non-competitive, 5K stroll through the Franklin Park Zoo with a variety of activities for adults, families and kids of all ages, including clowns, face painting, balloon animals, a live band, DJ and more. For registration information, call the National Kidney Foundation at (800) 542-4001 or click here.

The National Kidney Foundation of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Vermont, Inc. is dedicated to the prevention of kidney and urinary tract disease, improving the health and well-being of patients and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation.