News & Events
Discover new information and educational offerings that we provide. Explore our newsletters, blogs and upcoming webinars/conference calls.
Contents:
How Are You?
How are you? The usual answers are: “I am okay” or “I am fine”. But, how are you really doing? Are you sad? Are you afraid? Are you depressed? Are you feeling anxious? Are you angry? Are you happy? Let us focus on emotional well-being. What is emotional well-being? Many scholars believe that emotional well-being refers to a state of mental health characterized by positive emotions, resilience, and the ability to manage one’s thoughts and feelings in a healthy way. In other words, try to focus more on the positive and less on the negative. Negative thoughts and emotions can affect both the physical and mental well-being of individuals. The reduction of stress and anxiety [...]
Recipe of the Month: Pumpkin Pancakes
October's recipe is the perfect way to start a crisp autumnal morning (or go breakfast for dinner!): Pumpkin Pancakes.
The Kidney Citizen Issue 21
Welcome to the Living Well with Kidney Disease issue of the Kidney Citizen! The DPC Education Center is excited to share with you this latest issue that is all about supporting yourself, supporting your community, and continuing to live your best possible life.
DPC Advocacy Day 2025: When Patients Lead, Policy Listens
Yolonda Brisbane, DPC Grassroots Manager From July 12–15, 2025, the nation’s capital was infused with a powerful sense of purpose and unity as Dialysis Patient Citizens (DPC) welcomed 36 extraordinary Patient Ambassadors—dialysis patients, transplant recipients, and family members of those living with or lost to End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)—to Washington, D.C. for our Annual Congressional Advocacy Day. Our time together began with preparation and purpose. Patient Ambassadors entered a space of belonging that offered state-of-the-art meeting rooms and delicious kidney-friendly meals—nourishing both body and spirit. This setting became the heart of meaningful conversations, new friendships, and genuine camaraderie. We deepened our work through community-building and in-depth advocacy training, led by our expert [...]
Gratinado de Calabacín y Calabaza
Esta receta fue adaptada por Collette Powers, MA, RD, LDN, ACSM EP-C, a partir de Our best summer casserole recipes, abril 2017, Taste of Home. Tiempo de preparación: 25 min Tiempo de cocción: 10 min Tiempo total: 35 min Porciones: 6 Ingredientes: 2 cucharadas aceite de oliva extra virgen 2 calabacines medianos, cortados en rodajas de ¼ de pulgada (aproximadamente 2 tazas) 1½ calabaza amarilla mediana, cortada en rodajas de ¼ de pulgada (aproximadamente 2 tazas) 2 chalotes, picados finamente ½ cucharadita orégano seco ¼ cucharadita pimienta negra molida gruesa 4 dientes de ajo, picados finamente 1 taza pan rallado japonés (panko), dividido Instrucciones: Precaliente el horno a 450 °F (232 °C). En un [...]
From Flatline to Front Lines: A Dialysis Warrior’s Fight for Every Patient’s Future
Arthur Hill, DPC Board Member “When Death Couldn't Stop Me, I Knew I Had Work to Do” When I first learned I had Goodpasture's disease – a rare condition that would forever change my life – I had no idea I was about to embark on a journey that would reveal depths of strength I never knew I possessed. September 2010 marked the beginning of what I now call my awakening. Despite feeling unwell, I pushed forward with determination, traveling to Mississippi for work. My body was sending me urgent signals, but I was too focused on my responsibilities to listen. Two weeks later, when I finally sought medical attention, I discovered my [...]
Choosing Life: My Journey with Kidney Disease
Maria Robinson, DPC Board Member I’ve lived with kidney disease for most of my life. Nearly 30 years ago, I began my dialysis journey. Like so many patients, I was not fully prepared for such drastic change. I had to give up my dream job in order to take care of myself. I felt like I was losing the life I had worked so hard to build. Yet, over time, I realized that kidney failure was not the end of my life, but rather the beginning of a new one. It’s one filled with challenges, yes, but also filled with purpose, strength, and community. When I first started dialysis, I was fortunate enough [...]
Kidney Failure and Fighting for Our Cause
Adam Goldstein, DPC Board Member When I was 19, I had my whole life planned out, but cancer had other plans. I survived, but not unscathed. The chemotherapy that saved my life also damaged my kidneys. I was diagnosed with kidney failure and began dialysis soon after. For years, I was determined to push forward and live “normally.” I got a transplant. It gave me back a sense of independence, a sense that maybe life would stop orbiting around hospitals and lab results. But as many of you know, a transplant isn’t always a cure. Mine eventually failed. And so, I returned to dialysis. That was 2009. Since then, I’ve spent many, many [...]
Living Well with Kidney Disease
Velma Scantlebury MD, FACS, GCM, DPC Education Center Health Care Consultant In the United States, there are over 35 million persons who have chronic kidney disease, which accounts for one in every seven adults. Unfortunately, many millions also have chronic kidney disease and are not aware of the diagnosis. However, having chronic kidney disease may mean having to alter some of your lifestyle habits to protect your kidney function, but many of us must make sacrifices to stay healthy: limiting fats and high calorie drinks, increasing vegetables and healthy greens, and engaging in regular physical activity. However, with hypertension and diabetes being the leading causes of kidney disease, it is imperative that these [...]
DPC’s 2025 State Advocacy Wins
Elizabeth Lively, DPC Eastern Region Advocacy Director Pamela Zielske, DPC Western Region Advocacy Director DPC achieved key state wins for ESRD patients as several states passed Medigap premium protections during the 2025 session, with legislation in additional states still in play. In addition, several states passed “birthday rule” bills, which aim to allow more flexibility and patient choice for individuals with Medicare Supplement plans by providing a window for Medigap enrollees to change their plans without medical underwriting. As insurers price their plans differently, enrollees may find a more affordable premium for the same plan from a different insurer. Legislation providing Medigap premium protections for under-age 65 Medicare-eligible ESRD patients remains [...]
Empowerment in My Voice
Quiana Bishop, DPC Board President When my father was diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), our family stepped into unfamiliar territory. We didn't know what it meant, how to help, or even what questions to ask. We learned fast – but we learned through fear, frustration, and love. Today, I share our journey not just to honor him, but to help others avoid that helplessness and find hope sooner. My mother became the caregiver overnight. One minute she was his partner; the next, she was managing medications, appointments, and emotions that none of us had language for. The strength she showed was quiet but immense. My dad wasn't one to share details – [...]
One Day at a Time: Life Beyond Kidney Failure
Adrian Miller, DPC Board Member Thirteen years ago, I thought my story was over before it really began. I was walking with my brother on Super Bowl Sunday in February 2012, following our tradition of visiting neighborhood bars before heading to our parents' house. But that day, I couldn't even make it a block without stopping to catch my breath. I was gasping for air like I'd just run a marathon. Deep down, I knew something was seriously wrong. The next morning, I asked my sister to take me to the emergency room. When they checked my blood pressure – 260 over 170 – I was on the verge of a stroke. By [...]
September is National Sepsis Awareness Month
SEPSIS? What is sepsis? What are the signs and symptoms of sepsis? Is sepsis fatal? Sepsis is a life-threatening infection that can be fatal. Dialysis patients and all patients must be aware of the signs and symptoms and advise their medical providers immediately about their respective concerns. This is a serious matter and must never be taken lightly. The sooner it is identified, the better the outcome! The following article has been retrieved from the Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sepsis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351214 Overview Sepsis is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. The infection-fighting processes turn on the body, causing the organs to work poorly. Sepsis may progress to septic shock. This is [...]
Recipe of the Month: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Our September recipe is the perfect addition to any football tailgating or watch party spread: Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease News Update
Are you anemic? What is anemia? Chronic kidney disease is a leading factor in anemia because when the kidneys are damaged, they cannot produce enough erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Iron deficiency and inflammation can also be other factors that can cause anemia. Why is this news? Patients who have chronic kidney disease are often told that they are anemic but may not understand the term or the causes. This article will help to explain the causes, symptoms and treatment for anemia. The following article is retrieved from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease website: https://www.niddk.nih.gov. What is anemia? Anemia is a condition in which [...]
Recipe of the Month: Zucchini Squash Bake
Our August recipe is a super quick and simple recipe that takes advantage of all the summer squash that’s in season: Zucchini Squash Bake.
You Are What You Eat!
Hypertension and diabetes are two known risk factors for chronic kidney disease. It is vital that all patients follow a renal diet whether on dialysis or transplanted. Sodium and potassium must always be monitored by obtaining the appropriate labs. It is also extremely important to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian to ensure that the proper diet is followed, especially if one is experiencing problems with hypertension and/or diabetes. Proper nutrition is a key factor in living your best life! Of course, your nephrologist and/or general practitioner should always monitor your overall health concerns. We urge you to read this article, and if you have any questions or concerns, please consult a medical practitioner. [...]
Recipe of the Month: Fish Tacos
Our July recipe is a quick and easy summer favorite: Fish Tacos.
Let’s Get Away!
Are you ready to take a small trip, a vacation or a weekend getaway? Every month, we bring you current renal news articles but we have decided to focus on travel tips for renal patients. Many patients are reluctant to travel for many reasons but hopefully, these tips will help you to feel more confident as you plan to travel. Get excited, plan a trip, enjoy the summer! The following tips are being shared with you from DaVita Kidney Care (www.davita.com). Vacation on Dialysis People on dialysis can enjoy different types of vacations. You can set sail on a cruise ship, book a vacation abroad, road trip across the country, or visit famous attractions and entertainment spots. [...]
Recipe of the Month: BBQ Beef
Our June recipe is perfect for when you want a hearty dinner without heating up your kitchen: BBQ Beef.
