Nick Cannon - Nick Cannon Signs Up For Kidney Charity Walk

Mariah Carey's husband was hospitalised in December (11) during a family vacation in Aspen, Colorado and diagnosed with acute kidney failure - and he was back under the care of doctors in February (12) after blood clots were discovered in his lungs.

The rapper/actor, who was later found to be suffering from a rare form of autoimmune disease lupus, has added his support to the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Walk in New York in October (12) and has urged his fans to donate all they can to the initiative.

In a message posted on the organisation's website, he writes, "I'm thrilled to be walking the Kidney Walk and hope you'll help me get the word out about screening and the importance of healthy lifestyle in preventing kidney disease.

"I had very unhealthy eating habits but I now know that eating low fat, low sodium and low sugar diets and keeping blood pressure and blood sugar under control can prevent kidney damage.

"So let's team up to spread the message as we fight against kidney disease. No matter where you live, you can support our efforts. Make your contribution today and join Team Nick Cannon. Thank You!"