American Kidney Fund

1 in 5 Black Americans with two variations of the APOL1 gene have a chance of developing kidney disease. In fact, it is estimated that a significant proportion of kidney disease diagnoses in people of western and central African ancestry are attributable to APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD). Learn more about AMKD and help your patients, colleagues, or community become #APOL1Aware with AKF’s AMKD Awareness Day toolkit: https://bit.ly/3ITpD1o

If you didn't know, this month is National Minority Health Month. For people of Western or Central African Descent there is an increased risk of developing Apol1-Mediated Kidney Disease. I have Teamed up with the American Kidney Fund to recognize AMKD Awareness Day on April 30th. I encourage you to Become #Apol1Aware and know how your genetics could affect your kidney health. Kidneyfund.org/APOL1aware

As part of its longstanding commitment to kidney health equity, AKF has launched a national media campaign aimed at bringing greater awareness of kidney disease within Black and Hispanic/Latino communities, the two groups most disproportionately affected by kidney failure in the United States. A central piece of AKF’s Kidney Health for All™ program, this yearlong campaign focuses on prevention and disease management and will include national TV, streaming and radio PSAs in English and Spanish, digital advertising, video in primary care doctor’s offices, and ads on billboards and public transit in metropolitan areas with high rates of kidney disease. Read more in our press release: https://bit.ly/3JvZczc #KidneyHealthforAll #NMHM24

Ahead of AMKD Awareness Day on April 30th, join LaVarne Burton, President and CEO of AKF, and Mike Spigler, AKF Vice President of Patient Support and Education, as they sit down with AKF Ambassador Quenton Turner-Gee to discuss the challenges and his triumphs as someone living with APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD). Gain a deeper understanding of AMKD, its risk factors, genetic testing and valuable tips for advocating for your health care from a patient's perspective. REGISTER to attend tomorrow’s National Minority Quality Forum webinar at 12:00 pm EST: https://bit.ly/3UCc9xS

Mark your calendars! Join us Wednesday, June 5th from 6pm - 9pm at Pineapple Club, New York City as we celebrate the expansion of the David Atkins Living Donor Assistance Fund to the New York metro area! AKF is proud to partner with The David Atkins Fund to help boost living organ donation by providing financial grants to kidney donors, helping to offset the expenses not covered by insurance. Purchase tickets and learn more: https://lnkd.in/g8kY2hMX

Family is at the heart of everything we do ❤️, and understanding our health history is key to protecting our future generations. With APOL1-mediated Kidney Disease Awareness Day approaching on April 30, I’m reflecting on what it means to inherit more than just traits — we inherit health legacies that shape our lives 🧬. APOL1 gene variations are a part of our story for many of us with African ancestry, influencing our health in ways we’re just beginning to understand. This awareness day is more than an event; it’s a call to families everywhere to learn about their genetic health and seek early diagnosis and management 🩺. Let’s take this opportunity to learn about our genetic history and advocate for our families’ health. As APOL1-mediated Kidney Disease Awareness Day approaches, join me in spreading knowledge and support. Your engagement can make a real difference in our communities and help safeguard the health of future generations. #APOL1Aware #FamilyHealth #AKFAmbassador #HealthAdvocacy🌏 Joshua Albright Jaime Albright American Kidney Fund Nancy Gregory Anne Di Gregory

Leigh-Ann is living with FSGS due to two variationss of the APOL1 gene. Now that she knows the origin of her kidney disease, she’s advocating for others in her family to get genetic testing. Learn more about APOL1-mediated kidney disease and join in AMKD Awareness Day on April 30: https://bit.ly/3IgH4sl #APOL1Aware

During #NationalVolunteerWeek, we thank our wonderful AKF Ambassadors, Kidney Health Coaches, Health Equity Coalition members, KidneyNation & 37 Mile Challenge supporters, and all those who dedicate their time to AKF. From joining us on Capitol Hill to advocate for kidney health legislation to educating others on kidney disease across the country, their generosity, time and effort enables us to expand the reach of our work in the fight against kidney disease. Thank you 💙

AKF is thrilled to be selected as one of the top 50 nonprofit employers in the U.S. by The NonProfit Times and Best Companies Group for the third year! Read more here: https://bit.ly/3Us7zSD