Our call for unity and peace in turbulent times

Dear Friend,

Recently, the nation endured tremendous turmoil with the attack on the U.S. Capitol and threats to our democracy. At the American Kidney Fund (AKF), we were and continue to be deeply shaken by these events. The First Amendment protects freedom of expression, but it does not protect violent attacks on our most sacred symbol of democracy nor vicious acts of hatred. We condemn the acts of violence, call on all those involved to be held accountable to the farthest extent of the law, and show our steadfast support for the victims who lived through the trauma. One of the hallmarks of our country is that we hold many different political opinions—but we must stand together to protect the principles of democracy. Even in the darkest of times, we remain optimistic that we can work together to build a better and healthier society.

As we prepare for the inauguration of Joseph R. Biden Jr. as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President, it is our most fervent hope that this important day will be one of peaceful expression throughout the nation. Yesterday, we honored Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King sacrificed his life for a more just society, an equitable society, a society in which people of all colors and beliefs could exist together peacefully. In the words of Dr. King, ‘Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy…Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.’ During these challenging times for our nation, let us honor the accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr. by standing up for democracy, unity, respect and peaceful co-existence for all Americans.

Metabolic acidosis, or too much acid in the blood, is common in people with kidney disease. AKF is looking to learn more about people's experience being diagnosed with and treating this condition. If you have kidney disease (stages 3 or 4) and have been told by a health care professional that you have metabolic acidosis, we invite you to share your experience. Sharing your story will help AKF develop new educational resources about metabolic acidosis treatment for patients and professionals.

We will be conducting short telephone interviews (less than 30 minutes) for those who qualify. Patients who are selected to participate will receive a $75 gift card.

Submit your story on our website >>

If you or someone you know has Alport syndrome, you may qualify for a clinical trial conducted by Sanofi Genzyme. See if you qualify for this study.

If you have ever been diagnosed with Alport syndrome, you may be eligible for this clinical trial to study the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug in patients with Alport syndrome.

Researchers are looking for participants who: are male or female between 18 and 55 years old; have a confirmed diagnosis of Alport syndrome; have not received a kidney transplant; are not currently on dialysis; and do not have a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.

Learn more about this study >>

With the swearing in of a new Congress, it is more important than ever to let your elected officials know that kidney disease is an important issue to you.

It's visible in the numbers alone: 37 million Americans have kidney disease, and most of them don't know that they have it. Kidney disease is one of the top 10 causes of death in the United States—and it's time for our elected officials to make it a priority.

Please email your members of Congress today and let them know that you are a kidney voter who urges them to take decisive action to help kidney patients.

Send your members of Congress your message >>

AKF partnered with the Oxalosis & Hyperoxaluria Foundation for a Facebook LIVE about primary hyperoxaluria (PH) and understanding rare diseases.

Dr. David J. Sas, a pediatric nephrologist at Mayo Clinic, discussed the three types of PH, the role of genetics in PH and treatment options for PH. Amy, a caregiver to a child with PH, and Billy, an adult patient living with PH, joined Dr. Sas to tell their stories.

AKF is grateful to our supporting sponsor Alnylam Pharmaceuticals for helping to make this event possible!

View the recording on the AKF YouTube channel >>

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently gave emergency permission for two vaccines to prevent COVID-19. More vaccines are likely to be approved over the coming months. Here are answers to some common questions people who have kidney disease or who are living with a kidney transplant may have about the COVID-19 vaccines.

AKF will provide updates as new information about the COVID-19 vaccines becomes available. It is important to keep in mind that the answers to these common questions are general. You should always make sure to talk to your doctor about any questions you may have about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Learn about COVID-19 vaccines and kidney disease >>

Recipe contributed by The Cooking Doc®

Edamame, also known as immature soybeans, are a great source of plant protein and are often served at Japanese restaurants as an appetizer. In this dish, shelled edamame are used, and lemon, garlic, scallion, Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley are added to create a dip that bursts with flavor.

Get the recipe on Kidney Kitchen® >>