AAKP's National Awards were presented at the 2025 National Patient Meeting in Fort Worth, Texas:
AAKP national awards were presented for extraordinary leadership and excellence in the fight against kidney diseases. Awards are inspired by AAKP founders such as Shep Glazer, a kidney patient and former AAKP Board Member who dialyzed in front of the U.S. Congress 50 years ago to show that dialysis was a life-saving bridge to kidney transplantation and a return to the workforce. His brave act helped facilitate the 1972 Congressional passage, and subsequent signing by former President Richard M. Nixon, of legislation that created the modern Medicare ESRD Coverage Program.
2025 Awards
2025 Samuel J. Orenstein Award:
David Rodriguez, AAKP Board of Director and Ambassador
“For your extraordinary service and contributions toward the kidney community and support of AAKP’s mission and national strategy.”
2025 Peter Lundin, MD Award:
Antony E. Pfaffle, MD
“For your significant personal contributions to the care and well-being of kidney patients and advocacy for patient care choice.”
2025 Kidney Patient Support Group of the Year Award:
LIVING!! On Dialysis
“For your service to patients and raising awareness of kidney disease within the community.”
2025 National Patient Engagement & Advocacy Award (individual):
Gitthaline A. “Candie” Gagne
“In recognition of your contributions made to the kidney patient community, and the related professional community, through advocacy of national policies and programs that help improve and extend life for those living with kidney diseases.”
2025 National Patient Engagement & Advocacy Award (organization):
Alliance for Gout Awareness
“In recognition of your contributions made to the kidney patient community, and the related professional community, through advocacy of national policies and programs that help improve and extend life for those living with kidney diseases.”
2025 National Social Media Education & Advocacy Award
Christine Hernandez, RN, BSN
“For your excellence in social media, digital education, and advocacy efforts on behalf of the patient community.”
2025 President’s Award:
Valerie Gonzalez, AAKP Director of Office Operations
“With gratitude for a career marked by unwavering dedication, passion, and service to AAKP and the kidney community.”
2025 President’s Award:
Diana Clynes, AAKP Executive Director
“In recognition of a career of extraordinary commitment and exceptional contributions that strengthened AAKP and amplified the patient voice.”
