News
April 4, 2017The Northeast Kidney Foundation Hosts Gala
The Event: The Gift of Life Celebration is a time to celebrate the work of the Northeast Kidney Foundation and pay tribute to the individuals and organizations that work so hard to help the Foundation advance its mission of improving the lives of those affected by kidney disease and related conditions, increasing organ donation, and empowering those we serve to be effective voices for better healthcare at the local, state and federal levels. The event will be held on May 11, 2017 at the new Capital Center in downtown Albany. Honorees include CapitalCare Medical Group who will receive the Contributions to Healthcare Award and former Albany Mayor Hon. Gerald Jennings who will receive the Edwin Sperber Legacy Award. This year’s theme will be “Love, Peace & Unity” in celebration of the 70’s – the era that the Foundation was founded!
The Need: Kidney disease is a major health problem in the United States. Statistics indicate that there are 26 million people currently affected by kidney disease, with 20 million more at risk. Of those with kidney disease, nearly 400,000 people across the country are currently receiving dialysis treatment. At an average cost of $71,000 per person per year for dialysis treatment, chronic kidney disease is a huge burden on our healthcare system. In addition, there are more than 122,000 people on the national transplant waiting list; 102,000+ are waiting for a kidney.
Impact: Kidney disease has a diminishing effect on a person’s quality of life. Those receiving dialysis treatment are often unable to work and thus the financial and emotional burden on the individuals and their families is astounding. The Northeast Kidney Foundation provides patient programs and education, including direct financial assistance, and provides community screenings that can identify individuals with early signs of kidney disease. Through early identification and education, patients are able to receive appropriate treatment that can delay and prevent the need for dialysis and transplantation treatment in the future. In addition, the Northeast Kidney Foundation embraces the entire family through its initiatives. Educational programs are held throughout the year for patients and their families along with social outings that bring together families in a warm and supportive environment. By focusing on the care of kidney patients as well as the prevention of kidney disease, we can improve the lives of those affected.
