Inspiring Stories From Our Local Community
Julie's Story
Becoming a living donor has forever changed me as I truly understand how rewarding and empowering it is to be able to save a life. I also understand that while I only had one kidney to give, it’s also possible to save thousands of lives right here in Fairfield County – through kidney awareness, early screening, and community engagement. That’s why I recently joined the Board of Advisors for the National Kidney Foundation serving Connecticut and Greater New York.
Armand's Story
Nearly 30 years ago I was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) after giving blood at a local blood drive. That was quite a shock at the age of 40. After 3-1/2 years doing Peritoneal Dialysis, I received a pediatric pair of kidneys at Hartford Hospital. Surprisingly, these kidneys responded quickly to the new load and grew to full size in a matter of months. The pre- and post- transplant journeys are a very emotional and trying time for the patient. That’s why I give back to other Kidney Patients as a NKF Peer Mentor.
Olivia's Story
I found out about my kidney failure just after I turned 21, going into my senior year of nursing school. It was truly a huge shock for me. I lived with IGA Nephropathy my whole life but never expected to be affected by CKD so young. My view of the future became blurred and I didn’t know what to make of that diagnosis. But on May 10th, 2023 an amazing human came along and he donated his kidney to me. I am forever grateful for this life he’s given me - 23 years old and able to start truly living again.
Eating Right for Kidney Disease
Servings: 1 Taco Per Serving
Prep Time: 45 mins / Cook Time: 20 mins
Degree of Difficulty: Medium
Meal: Lunch, Dinner, Main Course
Pineapple Salsa:
- 1 cup pineapple, chopped
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp red onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Shrimp Tacos:
- ¼ cup olive oil 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1½ tbsp Southwest Chipotle Mrs. Dash
- 1½ pound shrimp (approximately 32 medium-sized shrimp), cooked, no tails, peeled, deveined, thawed (if frozen)
- 4 corn tortillas, taco size
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
Servings: ¼ recipe per serving
Prep Time: 30 mins / Cook Time: 30 mins
Degree of Difficulty: Easy
Meal: Lunch, Dinner
Ingredients:
- 2 cups romaine lettuce
- 1 cup watercress
- ½ small tomato, diced
- 2 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 4 ounces roasted turkey, sliced
- ¼ cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1 egg, boiled, peeled, chopped
Servings: 1 Chicken Breast Half per Serving
Prep Time: 30 mins / Cook Time: 10 mins
Degree of Difficulty: Easy
Meal: Lunch, Dinner
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sherry
- 4, 4–oz skinned, boned chicken breast halves
- Vegetable cooking spray
Looking to Volunteer?
Are you interested in volunteering? Check out our Volunteer Opportunities page to learn about different ways you can help kidney patients.
The Big Ask The Big Give
Do you need a kidney transplant? Or do you have a family member or friend who needs a kidney? Check out our resources on effective strategies, tools, and tips for finding a living kidney donor.
Kidney Cars Vehicle Donation Program
Turn your vehicle into cash for the National Kidney Foundation Serving Connecticut! Vehicles donated to National Kidney Foundation have the potential to bring hundreds and sometimes even thousands of dollars in support of advocating for all kidney patients through education, research, and innovation. Donating is simple, the pick-up is free, and your gift is tax-deductible. Donate online or call 800.488.CARS (2277).
Your Kidneys and You
Your Kidneys & You is an educational program on kidneys, risk factors and preventative action steps, with a focus on where to turn for more information. You can request a Your Kidneys & You presentation for your workplace, civic organization, school, club or place of worship.
Local Office
3000 Whitney Avenue, #121
Hamden, CT 06518
United States
Upcoming Events
- Oct 05, 2025 09:00 AMContact: Dana RobbinHubbard Park999 West Main St
Meriden, Connecticut 06450