Foundation News

Five Canadians Awarded for Raising Awareness About Kidney Disease

Wed, 02 May 2012 20:03:00 GMT

May 2, 2012 — The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC) is proud to announce the winners of the fourth edition of the Kidney Stories of Hope campaign. Throughout the month of March, Kidney Health Month, participants entered the contest, giving the jury of Kidney Foundation volunteers and employees the difficult yet rewarding task of selecting five regional winners.

The wide range of incredibly inspiring stories, submitted from coast to coast, detail the challenges of living with kidney disease, applaud the support of loved ones, and radiate hope. “Our panel had a tough time choosing the winners,” said Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “We hope that people who read these stories will be inspired and find the strength needed to cope with the challenges of living with kidney disease.”

Most people have never heard of kidney disease until it affects them, or someone they care about. Currently, more than 39,000 Canadians are being treated for kidney failure. “That is why the Kidney Stories of Hope campaign is so important,” says Shay. “By asking people to share their stories, photos and videos on the internet, it gives them the forum to share this information with others who may be in the same situation.”

The jury awarded five regional winners (British Columbia, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada) with the Shire Inspira Award for most inspirational story. Each regional winner received $500, courtesy of Shire Canada.

This year’s Kidney Stories of Hope Shire Inspira awardees are:

1. Todd K. Reid, Cloverdale, BC
2. Lauren Herschel, Calgary, AB (Prairies awardee)
3. Sharron Shepstone, Peterborough, ON
4. Mia Borelli, Montreal, QC
5. Judith Caissie, Moncton, NB (Atlantic awardee)

New this year, a non-monetary “Outstanding Contribution” prize has been awarded to the participant who went out of his or her way to both share a story and use it to raise the most funds possible in support of The Kidney Foundation’s mission! Congratulations to top fundraiser Mélanie Charbonneau of Montreal, who wins an iPod Touch. Melanie’s supporters contributed $380 through Stories of Hope. Together, participants raised a total of $2,345.

Congratulations to all of this year’s participants and winners. People are invited to read Kidney Stories of Hope entries by visiting: www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope

Download the full press release (pdf)

Kidney Foundation Organizes World Kidney Day Event on Parliament Hill

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:24:00 GMT

March 8, 2012 - The Kidney Foundation of Canada staff, nephrologists from the Ottawa area and kidney transplant recipients took to Parliament Hill on World Kidney Day (WKD) 2012.

MPs and Senators were invited to this Kidney Foundation event highlighting the need for additional support of organ donation and transplantation (WKD 2012 themes). Among the many who attended were Joy Smith, MP for Kildonan-St. Paul.

Ms. Smith, Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, agreed that increasing organ donation rates by Canadians was critical to reducing the numbers of patients waiting for organ transplantations. Mark Adler, MP for York Centre echoed these comments and pledged his support for The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s advocacy efforts in the coming year.

Left to right: Linda Vassal, Consultant, Sun Life; Dr. Deborah Zimmerman, Nephrologist, The Ottawa Hospital; Craig Dunbar, Coordinator, The Kidney Foundation of Canada – Eastern Ontario Office (KFOC-EOC); Dr. Jolanta Karpinski, Nephrologist, The Ottawa Hospital; Patricia Treusch, volunteer, KFOC-EOC, Francois-René Dussault, Committee Member, KFOC-EOC; Nadine Valk, National Director, Programs & Public Policy, KFOC; Senator Marjory LeBreton, Leader of the Government in the Senate; Megan Leslie, MP, Halifax; Ez Valiquette (transplant recipient).

Left to right: Nadine Valk; Michael Chong, MP, Wellington-Halton Hills; Bruce Hill, Manager, KFOC-EOC; Joe Comartin, MP, Windsor-Tecumseh.

BestLifeRewarded to Promote Awareness of Kidney Disease

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:04:00 GMT

March 8, 2012 - BestLifeRewarded^® and The Kidney Foundation of Canada are pleased to announce their collaboration to raise awareness of kidney disease and what can be done to improve both early detection and prevention.

“We are pleased to partner with BestLifeRewarded to offer incentives to Canadians for learning about kidney disease and for taking control of their health,” said Nadine Valk, National Director of Programs and Public Policy of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “March is Kidney Health Month in Canada and the ideal time to remind individuals of how they can actively participate in managing their kidney health. BestLifeRewarded.com will support our efforts to drive up awareness of these important issues.”

Free to all Canadians, BestLifeRewarded is the first of its kind health loyalty program offering healthy incentives for people for learning about and tracking healthy behaviours. BestLifeRewarded is a hub of credible health information in partnership with many national not for profit groups and coordinating Canadian health information in a way that is meaningful for the user.

Visit www.BestLifeRewarded.com today to learn more about kidney disease, complete risk assessments and earn healthy rewards for a healthier you.

Download the press release (pdf)

Kidney Health Month launched with Kidney Stories of Hope Campaign

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 15:14:00 GMT

February 27, 2012 — An estimated 2.6 million Canadians have kidney disease or are at risk of developing it. Moreover, nearly 40,000 people are treated for kidney failure with dialysis or kidney transplants. Since 1990, this number has more than tripled, and the individual burden on patients and their loved ones remains high.

“Kidney disease, particularly toward the end stage, is a huge burden, and many people suffer in silence,” says Paul Shay, national executive director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC). “This is why we created the Kidney Stories of Hope campaign.” Canadians are invited to share their inspiring stories about how they have dealt with the challenges of living with kidney disease or about someone they know who has risen to the challenge. “It is our hope,” adds Mr. Shay, “that through these stories, others will find the strength and inspiration to continue fighting this devastating disease.”

Throughout March, Kidney Health Month, Canadians are invited to submit their “Kidney Story of Hope” through a new tool available on the KFOC website at www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope, which allows them to create a personalized story page. A jury of Kidney Foundation staff and volunteers will award five regional winners (British Columbia, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada) with the Shire Inspira Award for most inspirational story. Each regional winner will also receive $500, courtesy of Shire Canada.

New this year!

A new award has been added for those who also wish to contribute to The Kidney Foundation’s fight to ease the burden. Participants can use their story page to invite people by e-mail, Facebook and Twitter to make donations in support of their story. This new option is entirely at the participant’s discretion, and the submissions will still be judged on their merits. This year, a non-monetary prize for the Kidney Story of Hope Outstanding Contribution will be awarded to the participant whose story raised the most donations for the KFOC.

Also new this year, participants will not only have the opportunity to post their stories online in writing via their story page, they can also choose to upload a video on YouTube and embed it into their story page. By creating story pages, participants can share their experiences and garner support via Facebook and YouTube.

Here are some tips to help you write a winning Kidney Story of Hope:

Novelty: Is there something unique or different about your story? Have you found a new way to cope with kidney disease?
Impact: Will your story help or change how other people with kidney problems work or live?
Human interest: Does your story inspire or motivate people in some way? Did someone inspire you—if so, how?

Winners will be announced in April 2012. For more information about The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Kidney Story of Hope campaign, visit www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope.

INFORMATION:

Irene Aguzzi
National Director, Communications and Marketing
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
Office: 514-369-4806 ext. 227
Mobile: 514-458-5342
irene.aguzzi@kidney.ca

Dominique Quirion
Associate
NATIONAL Public Relations
Office: 514-843-2302
Mobile: 514-531-5752
dquirion@national.ca

Organ Donation Rates are Stagnating – Kidneys Most Needed

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 07:25:00 GMT

February 14, 2012 - The most recent report on organ donation by the Canadian Institute of Health Information shows that the gap is growing between the number of organs available for transplantation and the numbers waiting for this life-saving treatment. Kidneys are most needed.

Paul Shay, the National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation, has conducted a number of media interviews in the wake of a national report from the Canadian Institute of Health Information, which show that the gap is growing between the number of organs available for transplantation and the numbers waiting for this life-saving treatment. Mr. Shay said the shortage is resulting in sorrow for many patients and their families. "We're really disappointed, because it is a real tragedy for everyone who is waiting for a kidney transplant and it is tragic for those who die waiting," he said.

See the full CTV coverage at http://news.sympatico.ctv.ca/home/organ_donations_in_canada_failing_to_meet_demand/f4205ae3

Read the CIHI Report: https://secure.cihi.ca/estore/productFamily.htm?locale=en&pf=PFC1696

Read the CIHI Media Advisory: http://www.cihi.ca/CIHI-ext-portal/internet/en/Document/types+of+care/specialized+services/organ+replacements/RELEASE_13FEB12

Take this survey to let us know about your information needs!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:33:00 GMT

The Kidney Foundation of Canada is continuously looking to ensure that people living with kidney disease have access to high quality information, tools and resources to help them understand and manage their disease. In order to better understand their information needs, a survey has been developed to help us identify which Kidney Foundation materials may need to be developed or improved.

If you would like to take part in this survey, please click on the following link. Please note that all survey results will be kept confidential.

http://kidneyfoundation.fluidsurveys.com/s/organisation-of-choice/

Nearly 55 years Since Canada’s First Organ Transplant, The Need for Donors is Still Great

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:50:00 GMT

Nearly 50 years ago, Dr. Dossetor, The Kidney Foundation’s co-founder, made possible the first organ transplant in the Commonwealth. Bruce Deachman of Postmedia News brings new focus to this historical event, reporting on the chance and opportunity that made that transplant possible. Deachman also brings to light the recent stories of Kidney Foundation of Canada volunteers who are transplant recipients or facilitators.

To learn more about the first organ transplant (kidney) in the Commonwealth, read “I wanted Moira to live”

Read about Kidney Foundation volunteer and kidney transplant recipient, François-René Dussault in “Kidney transplants offer freedom from tyranny of ‘life support’ dialysis”

Read about Kidney Foundation volunteer, Leanne McDougall who is a heart transplant recipient and stepmother of Steve, a multi-organ deceased donor in “My donor gave me a second life.”

Public Advisory: House of Commons Debate on Organ Donation

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:25:00 GMT

Ottawa, Ontario – Dec. 2, 2011 – Members of the kidney community, specifically, and the public at large are encouraged to follow and, if possible, attend the upcoming House of Commons Debate on organ donation expected to take place Monday, December 5th after 7:00 p.m.

Those interested in attending the live event and sitting in the public gallery are advised to arrive 30-60 minutes prior to the anticipated start time to allow ample time for going through the House of Commons security check. Those planning to attend in person are also asked to check the House of Commons site the day of the event to ensure there have been no unforeseen changes to the date and time of the debate, at:
http://www.parl.gc.ca/housechamberbusiness/ChamberHome.aspx?Mode=1&Language=E

Yesterday, this statement was read by Hon. Peter Van Loan, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons (CPC):

“Finally, there have been consultations, and in the interests of having members of the House use their place here in the forum of the nation to draw attention to an important issue that knows no party divisions and to encourage Canadians to sign organ donor cards, I, therefore, move, seconded by the Minister of Labour:

That a take-note debate on the subject of the importance of organ donations take place pursuant to Standing Order 53.1 on Monday, December 5, 2011.”

Original version: http://www.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publication.aspx?DocId=5297208&Language=E&Mode=1&Parl=41&Ses=1

Download this Public Advisory (pdf)

National Organ Donation Registry Celebrates 100th Successful Transplant

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:29:00 GMT

November 29, 2011 – Canada’s ground-breaking Living Donor Paired Exchange (LDPE) kidney transplant registry has reached another significant milestone with the completion of its 100th successful transplant. The landmark transplant comes less than a year after the last province signed on to make the LDPE Canada’s first truly national organ donation registry.

The LDPE – which operates as a partnership between Canadian Blood Services and transplant programs across the country - facilitates living kidney donations between patients with a willing but incompatible donor and other pairs in the same situation. Since launching as a three-province pilot in 2009, the LDPE has been a shining example of what can happen when programs work together, across provincial boundaries for the benefit of patients.

Much of the LDPE’s success can be attributed to the presence of non-directed anonymous donors (NDADs), selfless individuals who have entered the registry unpaired and are willing to donate to anyone in need. 20 NDADs have already donated through the registry, and incredibly have sparked nearly 70 per cent of the transplants completed to date.

“Non-directed donors have played a role in this system that is nothing short of heroic. They have literally given a stranger their life back. It’s hard to think of a more noble gift,” said Dr. Edward Cole, Physician in Chief, University Health Network, and Chair of the National Kidney Registries Advisory Committee.

For more information on the Living Donor Paired Exchange (LDPE) kidney transplant registry, visit the Canadian Blood Services website: www.blood.ca

Download the Canadian Blood Services press release (pdf)

Read Marina Jimenez's article in the Globe & Mail, "Living donors help strangers get a second chance"

Kidney Diet Just Got Easier: Free Online Tool Lends a Hand in the Kitchen

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:50:00 GMT

November 28, 2011 – For people living with kidney disease, managing their diet feels like a full-time job. Today help arrived with www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca. The Kidney Foundation of Canada launched a new online space called the Kidney Community Kitchen, designed specifically to reduce the burden of coping with kidney disease diets.

“The Kidney Community Kitchen is simply the best online tool I’ve used for managing the kidney diet,” said Patricia Treusch, who donated one of her kidneys to her 17-year-old son in 2007. “It meets the needs of those dealing with kidney disease and dialysis on so many levels. The first thing that comes to mind for me is the improved quality of life. It will help bring back the joy of healthy eating and sharing a meal, which is always important, but especially so during the holidays.”

Free and easy to use, www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca provides a way to plan meals and track intake of critical nutrients. Some of its features include:

Dietitian-approved and kidney-friendly recipes
Drag-and-drop meal planner that tracks vital nutrients
Drag-and-drop, ready-to-go weekly meal plans created by dietitians
The ability to submit your recipes to be added and reviewed by dietitians
A way to ask nutritional questions of qualified dietitians
Forums for sharing stories, ideas and favourite recipes
Diabetic exchange amounts—good for people monitoring diabetic and renal diets
Tips, FAQs and other nutritional info about the kidney diet

More than 60 volunteers contributed hundreds of hours to the project through design consultations, recipe review, recipe testing and user testing. “Bilingual and ad-free, www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca is a community effort that will make people’s lives easier and give them a better way to manage their diet,” said Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

The Kidney Community Kitchen was made possible by a generous bequest from the estate of James MacOwen Andrews. Mr. Andrews had a keen interest in diet, nutrition and prevention of kidney disease and renal failure. He spent considerable effort researching and managing his diet as a result of his own kidney problems. He was frustrated that good information was hard to find. Thanks to his personal insight regarding the challenges of living with a kidney diet – and his generosity – www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca is now available to help reduce the burden for others.

Anyone who is inspired by Mr. Andrews’s bequest and this new online resource to help reduce the burden of kidney disease can visit www.kidneycampaign.ca or www.kidney.ca/page.aspx?pid=658#bequest to find out how they, too, can make a difference.

For more information, please contact:

Irene Aguzzi, The Kidney Foundation of Canada
Tel.: 514-369-4806 ext. 227
Mobile: 514.458.5342
Email: irene.aguzzi@kidney.ca

Paddy Moore, Specialist, Media Relations
Tel. : 613-794-6912
Email: paddymoore01@gmail.com

Download the full version of the press release (pdf)

Media Advisory: Launch event for Kidney Community Kitchen

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:43:00 GMT

Kidney Diet Gets Easier: New Online Tool Here to Help

November 22, 2011 - The kidney diet can take the fun out of eating—the Kidney Community Kitchen is here to put it back in! Designed by The Kidney Foundation of Canada specifically for people living with kidney disease, the Kidney Community Kitchen provides a free, trusted and user-friendly way to manage the kidney diet and enjoy food again.

About the Kidney Community Kitchen
Healthy eating is critical for people living with kidney disease, but following the kidney diet can be tough. Why is it so difficult to manage? Potassium is a good example. It's not one of the 13 core nutrients that are mandatory on the Nutrition Facts table and is often not listed. When kidney function begins to decline it becomes more difficult for the body to filter potassium, water, sodium and phosphorus. Monitoring these elements helps people living with kidney disease maintain their remaining kidney function, control the build-up of food wastes and reduce unwanted symptoms, such as nausea.

The new online resource provides a free, bilingual, easy-to-use meal planner and diet tracker. It also offers recipes approved by dietitians and a forum for discussing all manner of topics related to the kidney diet.

The Kidney Community Kitchen arrives just in time for the holiday season, helping to restore festivity to healthy eating … when so much is shared through a meal!

What:     Launch event for the Kidney Community Kitchen, serving kidney-friendly dishes

When:    Monday, November 28th

Time:      11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where:   Divino Wine Studio at 225 Preston Street in Ottawa, Ontario

Who/Speakers:

Katherine Fletcher, Senior Vice President, High Road Communications
June Martin, Registered Dietitian and Kidney Foundation nutrition blogger
Patricia Treusch, Living Organ (Kidney) Donor to son living with kidney disease
Paul Shay, National Executive Director, Kidney Foundation of Canada
Nadine Valk, National Director, Programs and Public Policy, Kidney Foundation

Media Contacts for interviews & Launch RSVP:

Irene Aguzzi, The Kidney Foundation of Canada
Tel.: 514-369-4806 ext. 227
Mobile: 514.458.5342
Email: irene.aguzzi@kidney.ca

Paddy Moore, Specialist, Media Relations
Tel. : 613-794-6912
Email: paddymoore01@gmail.com

Download this Media Advisory (pdf)

The Kidney Foundation of Canada presents SeeKD abstract at the 2011 Canadian Hypertension Congress

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:15:15 GMT

November 1, 2011 – Last month The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC) participated in the 2011 Canadian Hypertension Congress, which is designed to encourage and promote the development of fair, balanced and evidence-based information regarding the research, diagnosis and treatment of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases, with the goal of improved patient care and health.

With this objective in mind, the KFOC presented an abstract for its national See Kidney Disease (SeeKD) targeted screening program. The program is aimed at promoting kidney health, screening populations at risk for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and supporting early detection.

The SeeKD program includes a pre-survey to collect data about participants’ knowledge of CKD and its risk factors. The testing process includes blood pressure as well as waist circumference, height and weight measurements, blood sugar testing and, if participants are in a risk category for kidney disease (such as people with hypertension), testing of blood creatinine levels.

Following screening, participants are sent to a counseling station to help them set health goals and follow-up with a health care provider where appropriate. The promotion of learning, self-management, behavioural change and follow-up by means of a post-survey also help determine if, upon receiving information about CKD and its risk factors, individuals will take action in addressing their overall health.

The data collected through the SeeKD program will help generate evidence-based data which may be used to inform public policy initiatives for the prevention and management of CKD, hypertension and other chronic diseases in high-risk groups.

To find out more about the SeeKD targeted screening program visit www.kidney.ca/seeKD

Announcing the 2011 Kidney Stories of Hope Awardees

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:43:00 GMT

June 21, 2011 – The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC) today announced the awardees of its third annual Kidney Stories of Hope campaign. Five compelling stories were selected by The Kidney Foundation’s panel of judges and each of their authors received a $500 cash prize made possible through an unrestricted grant from Shire Canada.

Please join us in congratulating the 2011 Kidney Stories of Hope campaign awardees from five regions across Canada:

JoAnn Landry – Victoria, BC
Nikki Dalby – Calgary, AB (Prairies awardee)
Brittney Krueger – Woodstock, ON
Édouard Guernon – La Baie, QC
Virginia Arsenault – Charlottetown, PEI (Atlantic awardee)

“The Kidney Stories of Hope campaign has become a significant, annual event, giving voice to those most affected by kidney disease while serving to educate the general public about the severe consequences of kidney disease,” says Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “The moving stories not only help inspire change, they also raise money for essential kidney-related programs and services, such as research. We thank each and every contributor for their testimonial and particularly congratulate the 2011 awardees.”

To read this year’s prized entries and for additional information on the campaign, please visit
www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope.

Download the full press release

Settlement Reached in Phospho-Soda Class Action Suit

Tue, 24 May 2011 19:06:00 GMT

May 24, 2011 - FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA is an over-the-counter pharmaceutical product which was often directed to be used as part of a bowel cleansing regimen, especially prior to undergoing a surgical procedure such as a colonoscopy.

If you or a family member ingested FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA and developed kidney damage, you may be entitled to compensation.

A Settlement Agreement has been reached and approved by the Court and the claim period has started to run. If you or someone close to you used FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA, you should immediately review the full legal notice in this matter to ensure you understand your legal rights. A copy of the full legal notice can be viewed at www.classaction.ca (English and French) or can be obtained by contacting Class Counsel as listed below or by contacting the Claims Administrator.

The settlement is for approximately $11,995,000.00. It is not possible at this time to estimate what level of compensation any one particular Eligible Claimant may receive.

Claim forms must be completed by September 22, 2011.

The Claims Administrator can be reached at 1-866-432-5534 or fleet@nptricepoint.com. Class Counsel can be reached as follow:

English enquiries:
Siskinds LLP
680 Waterloo Street
London ON N6A 3V8
Matthew D. Baer
Tel.: (800) 461-6166, x7782
Email: matt.baer@siskinds.com

French enquiries:
Siskinds, Desmeules, s.e.n.c.r.l.
43, Rue Buade, Bureau 320
Québec, Québec G1R 4A2
Nathalie Boulay
Tel.: (418) 694-2009
Email: nathalie.boulay@siskindsdesmeules.com

Download the full version of this notice

Health Canada Issues Advisory on “Omega Alpha Kidney Flush”

Thu, 05 May 2011 18:19:00 GMT

May 5, 2011 - Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc., in consultation with Health Canada, is voluntarily recalling all lots of “Omega Alpha Kidney Flush” due to the omission of cautionary and warning statements on the product label. This recall involves all lots of “Omega Alpha Kidney Flush” product, under the Omega Alpha brand, sold at retail locations in Ontario, Québec, British Columbia and Alberta.

“Omega Alpha Kidney Flush” may cause serious adverse reactions in pregnant women and kidney disease patients.

For more information consult the Advisory for this product on the Health Canada website:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/advisories-avis/_2011/2011_63-eng.php

Manitoba to Create New Electronic Organ Transplant Registry

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:15:00 GMT

April 21, 2011 - Manitoba is investing $100,000 to create a new, electronic registry so Manitobans can easily register their wishes about organ and tissue donation. “An organ and tissue donation can save or enhance more than 50 lives,” said Health Minister Theresa Oswald. “This centrally maintained, web-based registry will allow doctors and health professionals to easily access your record, quickly identify your wishes about organ donation and do their best to honour them.”

Only one to two per cent of the population are able to be organ donors due to timing or health reasons. Last year, Manitoba had one of the highest organ donation rates in Canada at 15.4 deceased donors per million people. In the last five years, Manitoba has seen a 67 per cent increase in organ donation. Last year, there were 53 kidney transplants in Manitoba.

This announcements build on recent investments to increase awareness of and support organ donation including:

funding a first-in-Canada team of hospital-based, organ-donation specialists that works with hospitals, medical staff and students to increase organ donations, as well as providing medical care to patients who wish to have their organs donated and working with the families involved;

partnering with the Kidney Foundation of Canada – Manitoba Branch to establish a program to reimburse expenses for living donors who donate a kidney or part of their liver to a friend or loved one;
beginning to provide cardiac surgeries for left ventricular assistance devices, a bridge to transplant for some cardiac patients; and
introducing new processes to make it easier to share the gift of life through tissue and organ donation.

Once the registry is launched, the province will introduce a public-education campaign to encourage Manitobans to register.

Read the full press release from the Goverment of Manitoba

Read the Winnipeg Free Press article "Web-based organ donor registry 'to save lives'"

Kidney Foundation Launches First National Targeted Screening Program

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 01:06:00 GMT

April 8, 2011 – Canada’s first national targeted screening program for chronic kidney disease (CKD) was announced today by The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC). The program, titled See Kidney Disease or SeeKD, is being made possible by an innovative funding arrangement with CN that will enable The Kidney Foundation to fulfill one of its cornerstone mandates: early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

The funding for SeeKD will take the form of CN donating out-of-service railcars to Kidney Metals, an initiative of KFOC, BC Branch in partnership with ABC Recyling Ltd. CN has pledged $600,000 over a three-year period, which will enable the SeeKD program to support early identification and prevention of chronic kidney disease in communities across the country.

CN marked the announcement by presenting The Kidney Foundation of Canada with a cheque that represents the first year’s commitment to the initiative. “We are delighted to be part of such an innovative program that will help save so many lives across the country,” said Karen Phillips, vice president public and government affairs.
ABC Recycling, a leading metal recovery and recycling firm, amazed onlookers at its Burnaby operation when it “sheared” a CN railcar resulting in 30 tons of metal now destined to improve the health of Canadians at risk of developing kidney disease. “We are happy to be able to contribute our recycling expertise to help The Kidney Foundation save lives,” said ABC’s CEO, David Yochlowitz. “We are proud of our involvement in both Kidney Metals and Kidney Car because we know from personal experience just how important kidney health is. Ten years ago I donated a kidney to my wife.”

“Targeted screening programs have been shown to detect 93 per cent of all chronic kidney disease in the community,” says Dr. Joanne Kappel, who helped design the SeeKD program and who currently serves as chair of The Kidney Foundation’s Public Policy Council.

For more information, please contact:

Pauline Buck, APR Communications Manager The Kidney Foundation, BC Branch Tel.: 604-736-9775, poste 230 (o), 604-812-1995 (c) Email: paulineb@kidney.bc.ca	Irene Aguzzi National Director, Communications and Marketing The Kidney Foundation of Canada Tel.: 514-369-4806, x227(o), 514-458-5342 (c) Email: irene.aguzzi@kidney.ca
Kelli Svendsen Senior Manager, Public and Government Affairs CN Tel.: 604-589-6512 Email: kelli.svendsen@cn.ca

Download the full press release

Important Notice Concerning FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT

March 25, 2011 - FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA is an over-the-counter pharmaceutical product which was often directed to be used as part of a bowel cleansing regimen, especially prior to undergoing a surgical procedure such as a colonoscopy.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE CLOSE TO YOU USED FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA, PLEASE READ THIS NOTICE CAREFULLY AS IT MAY AFFECT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR COMPENSATION.

Class action lawsuits were initiated in Ontario, Québec and Saskatchewan alleging that C.B. Fleet Holding Company Inc., C.B. Fleet Company, Inc., and Johnson & Johnson – Merck Consumer Pharmaceuticals of Canada (the "Defendants") negligently manufactured, marketed and sold FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA in Canada without properly warning of alleged risks of kidney damage. The Defendants deny the plaintiffs' allegations and deny any wrongdoing or liability. The court has not taken any position as to the truth or merits of the claims or defences asserted by either side. The allegations made by the plaintiffs have not been proven in court.

A Settlement Agreement has been reached. If you or someone close to you used FLEET PHOSPHO-SODA, you should immediately review the full legal notice in this matter to ensure you understand your legal rights. A copy of the full legal notice can be viewed at www.classaction.ca (English and French) or can be obtained by contacting Class Counsel as listed below.

English enquiries:
Siskinds LLP
680 Waterloo Street
London ON N6A 3V8
Matthew D. Baer
Tel.: (800) 461-6166, x7782
Email: matt.baer@siskinds.com

French enquiries:
Siskinds, Desmeules, s.e.n.c.r.l.
43, Rue Buade, Bureau 320
Québec, Québec G1R 4A2
Nathalie Boulay
Tel.: (418) 694-2009
Email: nathalie.boulay@siskindsdesmeules.com

The settlement is for approximately $11,995,000.00. It is not possible at this time to estimate what level of compensation any one particular Eligible Claimant may receive.

Download the full version of this notice

Saskatchewan to Reimburse Expenses of Living Organ Donors

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:27:00 GMT

People who decide to become a living organ donor to a Saskatchewan resident are now eligible for reimbursement of some of the expenses they may incur. The province is providing $200,000 to launch a reimbursement program for donors in partnership with The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Saskatchewan Branch.

The Kidney Foundation's Saskatchewan Branch becomes the latest Foundation Branch to help administer a Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program. The program will make it easier for individuals who wish to donate a kidney to a relative, but must travel or incur other expenses to do so.

The provincial funding will be used to reimburse living donors at a level similar to other provinces. Up to $5,500 in compensation will be available for each living donor. The Kidney Foundation will administer the program.

"We need to do all we can to increase transplant opportunities for Saskatchewan people who are waiting for a donor," The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Saskatchewan Branch Executive Director Joyce Van Deurzen said. "They deserve a chance at the improved quality of life and better health that a kidney transplant can provide."

For some history on the Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement (LODER) Program

Read the Government of Saskatchewan press release

Previous related announcement for the Alberta LODER Program (pdf)

Catching Kidney Disease Early Can Reduce Cardiovascular Complications

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:23:36 GMT

March 2, 2011 - Kidney disease is a major risk factor for heart disease, both of which are among the top ten causes of death for Canadians. During Kidney Health Month, March in Canada, The Kidney Foundation of Canada is reminding the public that addressing kidney disease early is one way of having a positive impact on helping to reduce cardiovascular disease. It’s a goal it shares with the international community of kidney foundations, whose World Kidney Day (March 10, 2011) theme also focuses on the cardiovascular risks associated with kidney disease.

Download the full press release (pdf)

Find out more about the link between kidney disease and cardiovascular disease

For more information on World Kidney Day (March 10, 2011), visit www.worldkidneyday.org

Kidney Stories of Hope Campaign Kicks Off Kidney Health Month

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 14:46:53 GMT

March 1, 2011 – March is Kidney Health Month, and The Kidney Foundation of Canada is once again launching its annual Kidney Stories of Hope campaign (www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope) to raise awareness of the importance of kidney health and what can be done to preserve it. This national campaign offers Canadians affected by kidney disease a chance to promote public education by sharing their personal journey for a chance to win one of five cash prizes of $500.

Five participants, one each from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario, the Prairies, and B.C. will be recognized for their compelling testimonials submitted to www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope. Profiling inspiring stories, while encouraging Canadians to learn more about the risk factors for kidney disease and their role in disease prevention or detection, is central to the campaign.

“Knowing whether you are at risk for kidney disease, managing your diabetes and blood pressure and following a healthy lifestyle could make the crucial difference between preventing kidney disease, slowing kidney disease progression and experiencing kidney failure,” said Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

The Kidney Stories of Hope campaign profiles powerful testimonials to improve understanding of the impact of kidney disease and kidney failure. The public awareness campaign is made possible through an educational grant from Shire Canada Inc.

For more details on the Kidney Stories of Hope campaign, visit www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope.

Download the full press release (pdf)

Number of Canadians living with kidney failure triples over 20 years

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:21:00 GMT

January 21, 2011 - According to a new report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), close to 38,000 Canadians were living with kidney failure in 2009—more than triple the number (11,000) living with the disease in 1990.

“While the number of kidney failure patients has been increasing in Canada, the supply of kidneys available for transplant has not kept pace with the growing demand. Dialysis treatments come at great cost not only to the health care system but also to the patients’ quality of life. On average, dialysis patients require treatment in a dialysis centre three times per week, often for four hours per session.” explains Louise Moist, Nephrologist and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Western Ontario.

Kidney failure results in substantial costs to the health care system. Based on CIHI’s estimates, the cost for hemodialysis treatment is approximately $60,000 per patient, per year of treatment. A onetime cost for a kidney transplant is approximately $23,000 plus $6,000 for necessary annual medication to maintain the transplant. In 2009, the more than 15,000 patients living with kidney transplants saved the health care system an estimated $800 million.

Other key highlights of the report:

The rate of people living with kidney failure appears to have leveled off since 2005. This may be due, in part, to patients seeing a nephrologist in earlier stages of the disease, which may be contributing to a delay in the onset of kidney failure;
In 2009, there were 5,400 newly diagnosed patients with kidney failure—more than three-quarters (78%) were treating the disease using hemodialysis;
The average age of new adult patients starting hemodialysis was 65 in 2009, up from 55 in 1990;
Only 31% of patients were “late referrals” (patients that need to start dialysis less than three months after first seeing a nephrologist), down from 42% in 2001;
Of all Canadians with kidney failure, 39% were living with functioning kidney transplants, compared with 47% in 1990;
Diabetes continues to be the predominant cause of kidney failure in Canada: one in three people with kidney failure has diabetes;
There are currently about 3,000 people on the wait list for a kidney transplant.

For more information on this report:

Visit the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) website: www.cihi.ca

Download the Canadian Organ Replacement Registry (CORR) annual report, Treatment of End-Stage Organ Failure in Canada, 2000 to 2009

Additional news coverage:

- CBC, Kidney failure rate stabilizing

- The Globe and Mail, Transplant waiting lists and dialysis costs grow as kidney supply lags behind

- Toronto Star, Kidney failure cases triple in 20 years

- Montreal The Gazette, Kidney transplants could save health-care system millions

Death of KFOC Volunteer Elmer Harris

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 20:00:00 GMT

January 7, 2011 - Elmer Harris, a long-time radio broadcaster and humanitarian from Newfoundland and Labrador, has died at the age of 71. He passed away January 3, 2011 in St. John's after a lengthy illness.

Elmer started out as a rookie reporter and eventually became senior vice-president of VOCM radio in St. John's, where he worked for more than 40 years. He was the first Newfoundlander elected as the national president of the Radio Television News Directors Association of Canada, and was also a recipient of the association's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Elmer was involved in the launch of several foundations in the province, including the Janeway Children's Hospital Foundation, the Children's Wish Foundation and the Joseph R. Smallwood Foundation. He served for many years on the board of directors of the Newfoundland and Labrador Branch of The Kidney Foundation of Canada and in 2008, he received the David Ornstein Distinguished Service Award from The Kidney Foundation.

He also received other national awards for his humanitarian work, including the Queen Elizabeth Golden Jubilee Medal in 2003 and the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award in 2005.

Elmer Harris leaves to mourn his wife Joan, sons David and Stephen, and a large circle of family and friends, including many at The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Founder of Annual Italian Night Dinner Passes Away

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:15:00 GMT

December 20, 2010 - Agostino Monteduro was passionate about finding a cure for kidney disease. Mr. Monteduro, a driving force behind the establishment of the Ottawa-based Kidney Research Centre and founder of the profoundly-successful Italian Night fundraising dinner, passed away on Sunday, December 12, 2010 at the age of 81.

Mr. Monteduro and a group of dedicated volunteers have raised more than $800,000 in the past 26 years in support of kidney research.

Since 1998, the Italian Night Dinner has included in its annual program the recognition of a member of the Ottawa community who has made a significant contribution to kidney research. In 1999, the Italian Night Committee established The Agostino Monteduro Endowment Fund. The fund, which has more than $500,000 endowed, will perpetually support kidney research, patient services, organ donation awareness activities and scholarships and bursaries to people undertaking studies related to kidney disease.

Mr. Monteduro was a kidney transplant recipient. In 1983, a construction accident resulted in injuries which caused a kidney malfunction and Mr. Monteduro was on dialysis for a year before receiving a transplant at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.

Inspired by the challenges facing patients he visited during his recovery, Mr. Monteduro approached The Kidney Foundation’s Eastern Ontario Chapter to ask how he could help with the cause. He devoted his energy toward many Kidney Foundation fundraising initiatives, but became widely known for establishing the Annual Italian Night Dinner and for collaborating with other influential community members to help establish the Ottawa-based Kidney Research Centre.

Six years after receiving his first transplant, Mr. Monteduro’s kidney failed. Once again faced with the rigors of dialysis, he tenaciously continued his fundraising efforts, selling dinner and raffle tickets. He was soon on the short list for another transplant and was outfitted with a beeper commonly used to notify candidates when a suitable donor organ becomes available. During the 1990 Italian Night Dinner, Mr. Monteduro’s beeper rang and a second kidney transplant followed.

Among his many accolades, Mr. Monteduro was awarded Knight of the Order of the Star of Solidarity by the Government of Italy through the Canadian Chancellory of Honours. He was recipient of two Kidney Foundation of Canada Volunteer of the Year Awards, the Air Canada Heart of Gold Award for outstanding contributions to the community, and the Canada Volunteer Award, Certificate of Merit, granted by the Canadian Minister of Health for his valuable voluntary service in improving the health and social well-being of Canadians.

Mr. Monteduro was predeceased by his wife, Porzia. He is survived by his children Maria (Dean), Anna, Linda (Derek) and Franco, and his grandchildren Luka, Maddie and Noel.

Mr. Monteduro will be fondly remembered and missed by the staff and volunteers at The Kidney Foundation of Canada for his unwavering dedication to making life easier for those living with kidney disease.

Kidney Exchange Registry Goes National

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:46:00 GMT

November 30, 2010 - Yesterday the Living Donor Paired Exchange (LDPE) performed the first match run to include kidney patients and donors from all across Canada. In doing so, it became the first Canada-wide organ donation registry.

The LDPE registry facilitates living kidney donations between patients with a willing but incompatible donor and another pair in the same situation. It is a partnership between Canadian Blood Services and transplant programs across the country, and was launched as a three-province pilot in January 2009. Since then, all other provinces have gradually joined the registry, and with Quebec firming up its participation in October, the initiative has become Canada-wide in scope.

"The inclusion of all provinces in the LDPE is a significant development for patients as it increases the pool of donors. And of course the larger the pool, the more likely patients are to find a match and receive the transplant they need," said Dr. Graham Sher, CEO, Canadian Blood Services. "This is a prime example of how better collaboration and integration can improve donation and transplantation rates in this country, and ultimately, save more lives. It is what sets top performing countries apart." In addition to going Canada-wide, the registry has celebrated some other important milestones of late, including:

the first LDPE surgeries performed in the province of Nova Scotia;
the first patients in Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador receiving transplants;
matches and transplants for highly sensitized (difficult-to-match) patients; and
first instance where kidneys were shipped as part of a living donor exchange from one Canadian centre to another, demonstrating that transporting the kidney rather than the donor is feasible in some circumstances.

"A transplant is generally the preferred treatment for people whose kidneys have failed but far too many patients are dying while waiting" said Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. "Each kidney transplant saves the health care system up to $40,000 annually. The 57 transplants that have happened as a result of this registry will save the system millions of dollars and improve the quality of life of the transplant recipients beyond any monetary value."

Read the full press release from Canadian Blood Services

Watch an interview with LDPE matched kidney recipient Rob Pattison on CTV News

Quebec Health Minister Announces Steps to Facilitate Organ Donation

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 04:25:00 GMT

November 11, 2010 – The Kidney Foundation of Canada is delighted with today’s announcement by the Honourable Yves Bolduc, Quebec Minister of Health and Social Services, that steps will be taken to facilitate organ and tissue donation in the province. In 2009, 941 Quebecers were on the waiting list for a kidney, representing 78% of people on the waiting list for an organ transplant.

Given its deep concern about the current widespread organ shortage in Quebec, The Kidney Foundation enthusiastically welcomes the proposed bill to facilitate organ donation, including the development of an intent to donate registry to be administered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec, changes to the labour standards, the creation of a program to reimburse the expenses of living donors and Quebec’s participation in the Canadian living donor paired exchange registry.

These changes reflect solid advances in the area of organ donation in Quebec. These types of initiatives are significant in facilitating organ donation, particularly in relation to the reimbursement of expenses for living donors. Expenses can easily amount to several thousands of dollars when donors have to travel long distances or be away from work and home for an extended period of time. Moreover, the change to the labour standards in the bill being tabled recognizes the needs of workers who must be absent from their place of employment in order to act as a living donor and provide the gift of life.

“All these initiatives will facilitate organ donation in Quebec, and will help more patients waiting for a transplant to have access to one more quickly. Organ transplants from a living donor show significantly better results and can last for over 20 years,’’ noted Dr. Michel R. Pâquet, Chair of the Organ and Tissue Donation Committee of The Kidney Foundation of Canada – Quebec Branch.

“The Kidney Foundation of Canada is pleased that a project we have strongly supported has become a reality,” notes Martin Munger, Executive Director of the Quebec Branch of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. ‘’We are particularly pleased with the reimbursement of donor expenses. Donating a kidney is already a highly altruistic gesture, so we are happy that the bill limits financial losses associated with organ donation.”

Download the full press release (pdf)

Health Canada Issues Advisory on ACLASTA* (zoledronic acid)

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 19:10:00 GMT

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. (“Novartis”), in collaboration with Health Canada, would like to remind patients of important safety information on kidney dysfunction based on post-marketing experience with ACLASTA*.

The Canadian prescribing information for ACLASTA* is being revised to further emphasize the association of ACLASTA* (zoledronic acid 5 mg/100 mL) solution for intravenous infusion with kidney dysfunction.

ACLASTA* has been associated with kidney dysfunction manifested as worsening of kidney function, and in rare cases, acute kidney failure.
Kidney impairment has been observed following the administration of ACLASTA*, occasionally after a single administration.
Kidney failure requiring dialysis or with a fatal outcome has occurred especially in patients with history of kidney impairment or other risk factors. Risk factors include advanced age, some concomitant medicinal products (e.g. any medicines known to be harmful to the kidneys) or dehydration occurring after ACLASTA* administration.

Individuals who have, or used to have, a kidney problem are advised to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking ACLASTA*. For more information please consult the Health Canada website at http://hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/medeff/advisories-avis/public/_2010/aclasta_pc-cp-eng.php.

*ACLASTA is a registered trademark of Novartis Pharma Canada inc.

Alberta Government Gives Grant to Kidney Foundation for Living Donor Expense Program

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:32:00 GMT

July 7, 2010 - A $200,000 grant has been provided by the Government of Alberta to the Kidney Foundation of Canada to establish a Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program in Alberta. The program will reimburse an Albertan who donates a kidney, partial lung or liver, for some costs associated with the organ donation process.

“We need to encourage more Albertans to consider organ donation,” said Minister of Health and Wellness Gene Zwozdesky. “This important program is one way in which we can help and support living donors who have chosen to give the gift of life. Increasing the number of organ donations will, in turn, reduce wait times for Albertans needing an organ transplant.”

The Living Organ Donor Expense Reimbursement Program will reimburse a living organ donor for reasonable travel and accommodation expenses at the final stage of the assessment process as well as meals and accommodation following transplant surgery. If an individual cannot work during the recovery period, a loss of income subsidy may also be provided.

“About 375 Albertans with kidney failure are waiting for a life-saving organ,” said Heidi Erisman, Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation’s Northern Alberta Branch. “A kidney transplant from a living donor is considered a preferred treatment. It tremendously improves the quality of life and health of the recipient.”

The maximum funding available through the program is $5,500 for each living donor.

“Patients often require several years of dialysis before a transplant can be obtained,” underscored Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation. “There is a significant cost saving when there is a successful transplant – and most transplants are successful.“

Download the full press release (pdf)

Announcing the 2010 Kidney Stories of Hope Awardees

Mon, 17 May 2010 13:39:10 GMT

May 17, 2010 - The Kidney Foundation of Canada (KFOC) is pleased to announce the awardees of its second annual Kidney Stories of Hope campaign. Five compelling stories were selected by The Kidney Foundation’s panel of judges and each of their authors receives a $500 cash prize made possible through an unrestricted grant from Shire Canada.

The Kidney Stories of Hope campaign empowers Canadians affected by kidney disease to share their personal experiences while participating in a national effort to promote kidney education and research during March, Kidney Health Month. For each entry, the Foundation also received $5 in funding from campaign partner, Shire Canada. Many heartfelt submissions came from across the country, and those awarded each act as a testament to the courage, strength and determination required by those confronted with kidney disease.

Please join us in congratulating the 2010 Kidney Stories of Hope campaign awardees from five regions across Canada:

Elaine Andrews - West Vancouver, BC
Brenda Delorme – St. Adolphe, MB (Prairies awardee)
Debbie Underwood – Zephyr, ON
Liz MacRae - Notre Dame de l'Île Perrot, QC
Pamela St. Pierre - North Tetagouche, NB (Atlantic awardee)

“Public education and awareness campaigns, kidney research and services, and appropriate and timely treatment are all vital to reducing the burden of kidney disease on individuals and the Canadian health care system,” said Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “The Kidney Stories of Hope campaign provides a platform for members of the kidney community to share their story of hope with a wider audience while helping to raise funds for essential kidney related programs and services. We thank all contributors for their powerful testimonials and particularly congratulate the 2010 awardees.”

To read this year’s prized entries go to www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope

Download the full press release (pdf)

Donors are Needed to Meet the Demand for Organ Transplants

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 15:12:00 GMT

April 18, 2010 - April 18-25 is National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week. Did you know that Canada is currently not able to meet the growing demand for organs? In fact, Canada’s organ donation rate doesn’t even rank among the world’s top ten.

The first successful kidney transplant was performed in 1958 between identical twin sisters at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal by Dr. John Dosseter, who later became one of the founders of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Kidney transplantation has since become the treatment of choice for many of the thousands of Canadians whose kidneys have failed.

Test your Transplant Knowledge: www.kidney.ca/quiz-transplant
Learn more on organ and tissue donation in Canada

Canadian Blood Services is the organization mandated by the Deputy Ministers of Health to improve the organ and tissue donation and transplantation system in Canada. It is holding public consultations across Canada to gather input and insight. You too can have your say by registering to attend a consultation or hosting your own Kitchen Table Conversation on the issue and submitting your feedback. For more information on what you can do, visit www.blood.ca/speakup.

Fifty-Seven Percent Increase in Kidney Failure over 10 years

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:17:00 GMT

March 17, 2010 - More than 36,600 Canadians were living with end-stage renal disease, otherwise known as kidney failure, at the end of 2008 - an increase of 57% since 1999. According to a new report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), about three out of five of these patients (21,754) were on dialysis and two out of five (14,884) were living with a functioning kidney transplant.

The report, Treatment of End-Stage Organ Failure in Canada, 1999 to 2008 draws on data from CIHI’s Canadian Organ Replacement Register (CORR) to examine dialysis and transplantation characteristics and trends in Canada. The annual report found that in 2008, there were more than 5,000 new kidney failure cases in Canada.

Overall, 2,080 transplants of solid organs were performed in Canada in 2008. These included kidney (1,216), liver (453), lung (165), heart (164) and pancreas (82) transplants.

Download the CIHI report Treatment of End-Stage Organ Failure in Canada, 1999 to 2008
Watch CBC The National's coverage of the report

Diabetic Kidney Disease – A Bet Canadians Can Beat

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:21:00 GMT

March 11, 2010 - The fifth World Kidney Day - March 11, 2010 - is a pressing, global reminder for Canadians to get in the know about diabetic kidney disease. Research has shown that in population-based surveys, less than 10% were able to identify diabetes as a risk factor for kidney disease. And a recent Leger Marketing survey by The Kidney Foundation of Canada shows Canadians don't know that diabetes is one of the most frequent causes of end-stage kidney disease, which requires life-saving treatments to stay alive. It is critical for Canadians to know diabetic kidney disease is dangerous and can often be managed, even beaten.

Early detection and management of diabetes and kidney disease are terribly important for avoiding heart disease and demanding end-stage kidney disease treatments such as dialysis. “There are roughly 2 million Canadians with – or at risk for - some degree of impaired kidney function. For 20 years, we saw a steady growth rate in the number of people starting dialysis in Canada,” notes Dr. Michael Copland, a nephrologist and Chair of The Kidney Foundation's Public Policy Council. “But in the last couple of years, the rate has reached a plateau. It’s very possible that the aggressive early detection and intervention of kidney disease that has been going on for the last 10 years is beginning to show positive results.”

While early disease intervention is possible and the treatments are increasingly successful, the science can't help Canadians who remain in the dark about diabetes being a major risk factor for end-stage kidney disease. “Public knowledge is not keeping pace with medical advances,” says Paul Shay, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “And it's why our Branches coast-to-coast hold community and public education activities on World Kidney Day and throughout the month of March to remind Canadians about the important link between diabetes, kidney health and heart health.”

Canadians can test their kidney saviness, by taking The Kidney Foundation’s online kidney quiz at www.kidney.ca/quiz. And they can take an active role in learning how diabetes can be controlled and how to better manage kidney disease, by consulting the Diabetes and Kidney Disease brochure and Eating Guidelines for Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease fact sheet, both available online at www.kidney.ca/brochures.

World Kidney Day takes place annually, every second Thursday of March. This global health awareness campaign focuses on the importance of kidneys and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health problems worldwide.

For more information on the World Kidney Day events taking place in Canadian communities
For more information on World Kidney Day activities around the world
Download the full press release (pdf)

Survey Reveals Canadians Don’t Fully Understand the Vital Importance of Their Kidneys

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:57:10 GMT

March 2, 2010 - Are you kidney clever? Although 2 million Canadians have, or are at risk for, kidney disease, a Leger Marketing survey* reveals that 44% of Canadians don't identify the kidney as a vital organ. Kidney disease often progresses quietly reducing kidney function before any symptoms appear. The survey showed that most Canadians are unaware of its causes. In fact, nearly 60% of Canadians are unaware that the two most common causes of end-stage kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure – illnesses that are often preventable.

Kathryn Richardson, National President for The Kidney Foundation of Canada says the survey results indicate it’s time for Canadians to become kidney clever and learn what kidney disease really means. “Although most Canadians know the kidneys help remove waste from the body, the majority - over 85% - don't know that kidneys produce hormones that help control blood pressure or that kidneys play a role in promoting strong and healthy bones. In fact the kidney is a major organ like the heart or lungs. It actually affects heart health. What's more, kidney disease can develop into a life-long illness with no cure if left untreated and unmanaged.”

If diagnosed early, kidney disease can often be controlled. Knowing risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure is critical. People who are over 55 years of age or from certain populations such as First Nation, Hispanic, African American and Asian are also at risk.

To find out if you’re at risk for kidney disease, consult the brochure Am I at Risk from The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

To find out if you’re kidney clever, take the quiz at www.kidney.ca/quiz

For media inquiries:
Irene Aguzzi
Manager, National Public Affairs
514-369-4806, ext. 227
Irene@kidney.ca

* Methodology
Leger Marketing conducted an online survey of 1,521 adult Canadians to determine their level of awareness of the kidneys’ function and the severity of kidney disease in Canada. The national survey was conducted between August 17 and August 20, 2009. The results are considered accurate within a margin of error of +/-2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

March is Kidney Health Month

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:25:00 GMT

March 1, 2010 - During Kidney Health Month dedicated Canadians from across the country work to raise awareness of the importance of kidney health. This March, Shire Canada Inc. is renewing last year's inaugural partnership with The Kidney Foundation of Canada in support of The Kidney Stories of Hope campaign (www.kidney.ca/storiesofhope). This unique initiative directly engages Canadians and offers persons affected by kidney disease a chance to promote kidney education and research by sharing their personal experiences.

More about the Kidney Stories of Hope Campaign

Read the press release from Shire Canada Inc.

PD Patient Sailing Solo Across the Atlantic

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:26:00 GMT

Jean-Louis Clémendot, a 59 year-old sailing enthusiast and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patient, left the island of Lanzarote in Spain on November 30 and has been sailing since across the Atlantic, heading for the Carribean island of Martinique.

Mr Clémendot loves the sea of course but he also has a mission: to demonstrate to other kidney patients that peritoneal dialysis (PD) has not taken away the freedom to sail. He hopes to be an inspiration to the 1,700,000 dialysis patients around the world and show that you can continue to live life to the fullest despite kidney disease.

You can follow his adventure, the first of its kind world-wide, on his website: www.jeanlouisclemendot.fr.

There is no cure for kidney disease, and a recent survey shows Canadians don’t know. So now what?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:35:27 GMT

To listen to the Audio News Release (script 2)
For Quick Facts and Stats on kidney disease

What do kidneys do? A recent survey by The Kidney Foundation of Canada reveals Canadians don’t know

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:33:21 GMT

To listen to the Audio News Release (script 1)
Learn why kidneys are so important

Donors and recipients from Canada’s first domino transplant tell their story

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:06:21 GMT

September 24, 2009 - Canada's first domino kidney transplant took place in June 2009. Now the donors and recipients have more to say on how organ donation can transform lives for the better.

Read the full story in The Globe and Mail

The organ donor who started this chain of events, Ms. Lisa Sayer, will answer questions online about her experience in the Sept. 29 online edition of The Globe and Mail. You may submit a question to Ms Sayer by email until Friday Sept. 25 at 2 p.m.

Find out how to submit a question to Ms. Sayer

Study Suggests Alternative to Kidney Transplant

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:38:00 GMT

August 25, 2009 - Kidney transplants are the gold-standard of care for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). But given the shortage of organs available for transplantation, researchers are studying the value of alternative treatments. According to the results of a 12-year Canadian study, the odds of surviving kidney failure may be as good for patients on overnight home hemodialysis as they are for kidney transplant recipients. The Toronto Star reports that this finding was received with caution by other experts in the field who maintain that kidney transplantation remains the treatment of choice for ESRD.

Read the article published in the Toronto Star

New, Unified Web Presence for The Kidney Foundation

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:21:05 GMT

August 17, 2009 - The Kidney Foundation of Canada today re-launched Kidney.ca, the bilingual, go-to website for the kidney community in Canada. The new site brings all Foundation branch websites under the Kidney.ca umbrella, providing strengthened, consistent branding, regular content updates and exciting new features.

Read more on the new features available on kidney.ca (pdf)

Announcing the New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island Branch

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:11:00 GMT

May 7, 2009 - In order to support the mission of The Kidney Foundation of Canada in the most efficient manner possible, the provinces of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island will henceforth be served by one Branch called the New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island Branch.

We will maintain the Foundation's vibrant presence across the two provinces and we will continue to strengthen volunteer engagement in the Foundation in order to further reduce the burden of kidney disease.