E-Kidney Newsletter February 2008

Famous Fashionista Lives in Glam and Gratitude After Kidney Transplant

Three summers ago, Steven Cojocaru, was on top of the world. The Montreal-born Cojocaru had morphed into Cojo, the hilarious and haughty fashion correspondent for Entertainment Weekly, who also dished celebrity fashion faux pas with Katie and Matt on NBC's Today Show.

Then, reality bit. Hard. Having had high blood pressure since his 20s, Cojo dragged his exhausted self to a doctor, who after tests told his famous patient to get to a specialist fast; there was something seriously wrong with this kidneys. "Kidneys" Cojo shouted in horror. "Do I even have kidneys? What do they do?" MORE

"Simple Switch Gives Heart Good Night's Rest

Switching the dose of one blood pressure medicine from morning to night helps restore a healthy rhythm to blood pressure, which protects against kidney and cardiovascular problems, according to a new study which appeared in a recent issue of the American Journal of Kidney Diseases, the official publication of the National Kidney Foundation. MORE

The Ultimate Valentine's Day Gift

Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate love and "Happily Ever After." When it comes to matters of the heart, Sandy Webster's husband, Chris, gave Valentine's Day a new meaning. For the happy couple, no other day is more special or significant. Thirteen years ago, Sandy's Valentine's gift from her husband was a new chance at life-- in the form of a donated kidney.

Webster was only 10 years old when doctors told her she had a rare disease, Heinloch-Schonlein Purpural, which attacks the kidneys. She received the first kidney from her dad in 1977 and went on to lead a normal and healthy life, which included finishing high school and college, marriage and the birth of a child.

Then her luck turned.

For more on Sandy, and her "Valentine" transplant story, MORE

10 Steps for Protecting Kidney Health

Recent studies indicate that 26 million American adults suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD) and that the number is likely to rise unless Americans get serious about prevention. National Kidney Month (March, 2008) and World Kidney Day (March 13) mark a perfect time for responsible adults to begin a kidney health program by learning about the risk factors for CKD. Primary risks include: diabetes; heart disease; high blood pressure; a family history of kidney disease; and age 60-plus. Secondary risks include: obesity; autoimmune diseases; urinary tract infections and systemic infections.

Exercising regularly and controlling weight are just two of the ten ways keep your kidneys healthy. Click here for the full list, MORE

Kidney-Friendly Recipes Can Taste Great

One of the challenges posed by the kidney diet is how to make flavorful food while maintaining the low sodium restrictions. Professional Chef and kidney patient, Duane Sunwold, knows from personal experience that he feels better, has more energy and sleeps better if he restricts his sodium intake. After doing some culinary research, he was pleased to find a much larger section of salt-free seasonings than he expected. Chef Duane compiled a list of seasoning combinations, along with two easy recipes your entire family will enjoy – even those not on the kidney diet.

To read Chef Duane's Notes from the Chronic Kidney Disease Kitchen and view his low-sodium recipe for Ginger Roasted Chicken with Asian Slaw, click here

Golfers from Florida and New York Win Titles at the 2008 NKF Golf Classic National Finals in Pebble Beach, California

They grabbed their woods and irons and showed their mettle at the picturesque and challenging golfer's mecca -- Pebble Beach, California. More than 60 teams, all successful competitors at NKF regional tournaments around the U.S., competed in the finals of the premier golf event for charity which helps raise millions of dollars annually to support patients and their families affected by kidney disease. MORE