Let's Get Moving!

Thank you for helping me reach my fundraising goal! Your contribution will go to programs and services that benefit kidney patients, transplant recipients, organ donors and their families: early detection screenings, research, education for professionals and patients, and much more.

My life changed very suddenly on August 15, 2008 when I was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Failure (ESRF). Never in my life did I ever imagine I would receive such horrible news that would turn my life upside down. I had no idea that ESRF was a fatal disease with no cure and only two options for treatment, life-sustaining dialysis or a kidney transplant. The life that I knew and loved was gone forever and I had to readjust my plans and dreams to incorporate dialysis treatments into my new life style. Fortunately, I was able to come to terms with my illness and have wonderful and caring people around me in the form of family, friends, and colleagues. I also am one of the very lucky ones who was able to receive a kidney transplant.  My older brother, Terry, gave me one of his kidneys on Dec. 9, 2011. Once again, I have named this year's team, Team Fred.  The past year has not been easy.  The transplant has been a blessing and a curse.  A blessing in that I am off of dialysis, but a curse because it is not a cure.  Like most transplant recipients, I am dealing with the horrible side effects and problems caused by the immunosuppressant medications.  This walk is so important to me because I hope that someday through the money raised, a cure can be found for kidney disease so that in the future, patients have other options besides dialysis or a transplant.   

The National Kidney Foundation has also been a source of information, guidance and support. I am grateful to all of you who have contributed to NKF and are helping us to reach our fundraising goals.


Please support me with a donation by selecting the "Donate" button.

Why Walk the Kidney Walk?

• Chronic kidney disease affects 26 million Americans--1 in 9--and millions more are at risk
  
  
• Kidney disease is common, harmful and treatable
  
  
• Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes and family history of kidney disease
  
  
• Early detection can slow or even prevent the progression of kidney disease
  
  
• Once kidneys fail, patients need dialysis or a transplant to survive
  
  
• More than 85,000 Americans are waiting for a kidney transplant