The nation’s leading kidney patient advocacy groups, including the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), concluded a successful Kidney Patient Summit in Washington, D.C. on March 3-4, increasing awareness and support for the nation’s kidney patients. More than 50 patients and caregivers traveled across the country to meet with Congressional members and their staff to emphasize the importance of kidney disease awareness and education.

The Kidney Patient Summit opened with a lunch-and-learn session which provided patients with tips on the do’s and don’ts of communicating with a Congressman or a member of their staff. The participants also had a chance to role-play a visit to a Congressional office. Participants also heard from Dr. Griffin Rogers, Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).  Dr. Rogers spoke about the work of NIDDK and how it helps people suffering from kidney disease.

“This was an excellent opportunity to increase patient awareness of legislative issues, foster relationships with congressional offices, and gain real-life education in the practical aspects of patient advocacy,” said AAKP President Sam Pederson.  “AAKP was pleased to participate in such a wonderful opportunity for our patients.”

“At a time when federal funding has been reduced, it is critical Congressional leaders support necessary funding to ensure patients continue to receive the specialized and life-saving care they need,” said AAKP Board Member and Patient Summit participant Richard Knight.

AAKP is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for kidney patients through education, advocacy and patient to patient support. We are recognized as the leader for patient-centered kidney health education. We believe patients who understand their disease, and who work with their health care team, have a better quality of health and greater quality of life. We bring over 45 years of experience educating and advocating for kidney wellness.

AAKP is the voluntary, patient organization, which for 45 years, has been dedicated to improving the quality of life of kidney patients through education, advocacy and the fostering of patient communities. The programs offered by AAKP inform and inspire patients and their families to better understand their condition, adjust more readily to their circumstances, and assume more normal, productive lives in their communities.