Canadian Celebrities Paint for a Brush of Hope

Fredericton, NB, December 10, 2012

Original artwork raises more than $15,500 in support of kidney disease research

The Kidney Foundation in collaboration with UPS Canada worked together to help raise funds for kidney research. A Brush of Hope is a fundraising event where Canadian celebrities paint original pieces of art which are then put up for auction. This year's celebrity artists included: Leonard Cohen, Biff Naked, Tegan Quin of Tegan & Sara, Natalie MacMaster, Ashley MacIsaac, Alannah Myles, Mike Smith "Bubbles" of Trailer Park Boys, Jayne Eastwood and Bret "The Hitman" Hart.

"It is with the support of UPS Canada, our Canadian celebrities and the contributions and donations from people around the world that we are one step closer to finding a cure for kidney disease," says Linda Garwood, The Kidney Foundation Office Manager.

The Canadian celebrities' masterpieces were on display at various galleries in Atlantic Canada from October 18- 28. Residents in Saint John and Fredericton, NB and St. John's, NFLD were able to view them in person. Those who were unable to attend the galleries could see and bid on the paintings through eBay. Some of the celebrities participating in the charity have a personal connection to The Kidney Foundation.

"In 1990, I lost my dear brother Dean to kidney disease and it has always been a cause my entire family and I have always supported. Having a chance to put brush to canvas, in order to benefit such a worthy cause, has allowed me to create what I like to think is 'happy art', simple artwork that can express hope and happiness for those battling kidney disease," said Bret "The Hitman" Hart, Wrestler. "I will continue to proudly support one of the worthiest causes that gives hope to those in need with kidney disease. Thank you for letting me be part of such a noble crusade."

This year A Brush of Hope raised more than $15,500 and the highest auctioned piece belonged to Leonard Cohen which sold for $2,088.

"There were some amazing paintings for auction and although not all the celebrities asked to participate are artists, each one crafted something unique, beautiful and personal for a great cause," said Korby Banner of Style By Jury. "As a 2012 spokesman for A Brush of Hope I thank every contributor, organizer and most wholeheartedly the buyers that make a huge positive impact on this project!"

UPS Canada partnered with A Brush of Hope for a special reason. Ten years ago, Darren Martin, a Fredericton employee, had a kidney transplant. The company wanted to show its support for Darren and to The Kidney Foundation of Canada by being a proud sponsor. A Brush of Hope raises funds for critical research of kidney disease. Currently, there is no cure.

You can also visit www.kidney.ca/nbpei or join the Facebook group 'A Brush of Hope' to learn more about the event and how you can help find a cure.