Inspiring Stories From Our Local Community
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.
Amy's Story
There are SO MANY people who are destined to spend their lives tethered to a dialysis machine because their own kidneys have failed. One kidney is enough for many people to live completely healthy lives doing anything they can imagine and the gift gives the donor more than they can possibly imagine too. Living donor kidneys are the best choice for recipients. Another kidney donor had the best analogy, he said, 'I had two life jackets and I saw someone drowning so I gave them my extra.
Michael's Story
Throughout my journey, my biggest challenge was developing serious health issues. Another challenge was being on dialysis again for the third time. It was mentally and physically draining on my mind and body. I spoke to my church family and pastoral team for support. Even though things are tough, never give up. There were moments that I got knocked down so many times, but I picked myself back up and kept on fighting. Staying motivated helped me to break so many barriers!
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.
Have questions about kidney disease? We can help!
Our Patient Information Help Line, NKF Cares, offers support for people affected by kidney disease, organ donation or transplantation. It's designed just for patients, family members and care partners. Speak with a trained specialist who will answer your questions and listen to your concerns. This is available in English and Spanish Monday–Friday, 9am–7pm ET!
¿Tiene preguntas sobre la enfermedad renal? ¡Podemos ayudar!
Nuestra línea de ayuda de información NKF Cares, ofrece apoyo a las personas afectadas por enfermedades renales, donación o trasplante de órganos. Está diseñado solo para pacientes, familiares y sus cuidadores. Hable con un especialista que responderá sus preguntas y escuchará sus inquietudes. Esto está disponible en inglés y español de lunes a viernes de 9am a 7pm, hora del este.
Designed for professionals committed to continuing their education and improving patient outcomes, PERC offers activities courses, events and other engaging content on an array of carefully selected topics given by renowned faculty.
To keep kidney patients, caregivers, and medical professionals up to date with crucial information regarding COVID-19 we've included links to our most recent webinars for your viewing pleasure.
Local Office
30 East 33rd Street
New York, NY 10016
United States