Patient Services Programs

Organ Donor Program

Organ and tissue donation is, in essence, a gift of life. It is the most precious gift any of us can give. Today's medical technology enables us to prolong and save the lives of many people through transplantation. Without donation, however, we cannot provide this opportunity to the thousands of people who are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.

• There are two main things you need to do once you make the life-saving decision to donate your organs: (l) sign your organ donor card, and (2) TELL YOUR FAMILY. You have several choices for obtaining a donor card:
  • Call us at 1-800-737-5433 or (502)585-5433 and we'll mail you a donor card, or Sign the back of your driver's license
• It's that simple. Did you know that a simple conversation with your family could have the power to save a life, or several lives. Once you decide to sign an organ donor card or sign the back of your license, remember to discuss your feelings about organ donation with your family.
• For additional information on organ and tissue donation contact the National Kidney Foundation of Kentucky (NKFK) (e-mail or call (502)585-5433 or 1(800)737-LIFE), or the Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates (KODA) at 1(800)525-3456; in Louisville at (502)581-9511, and in Lexington at (606)278-2492.

March is "National Kidney Month"

During the month of March, the NKFK urges all residents in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and southern Indiana to learn more about their kidneys and get regular checkups.

National Organ & Tissue Donor Awareness Week

During the month of April, in an effort to ease the desperate organ shortage in the U.S., the NKF and all of its affiliates and chapters challenge all Americans to sign an organ donor card and discuss their decision with their family.

Patient and Public Education

Provides free literature about kidney and urinary tract diseases to the community, dialysis clinics, health fairs, health care professionals, patients and family members. For more information, contact us.

People Like Us, Live

An interactive and informative FREE educational program designed for kidney patients, family members and professionals. PLUL covers all areas of kidney disease, including treatment options (hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and transplantation), Good Nutrition, and Healthy Coping. For more information, contact us.

Kidney Early Evaluation Program-KEEP

FREE health screening designed to identify individuals at increased risk for kidney disease and to facilitate their follow up care. KEEP focuses on "high risk" individuals-those with diabetes and/or high blood pressure, or who have first-degree relatives with these conditions or chronic kidney disease. For more information, contact us. www.keeponline.org

Support Group

Provides an educational and sharing experience once a month for patients and family members. The group meets the 2nd Thursday of every month at the New Albany-Floyd County Public Library, 180 W. Spring St., New Albany, IN. For more information, contact us.

Public and Professional Video and Book Lending Library

A collection of informative books, videos, and slides on all aspects of kidney and urinary tract diseases and treatment. These materials are available for loan.

Referral and Information Helpline

Provides general information, support and referral by phone and e-mail.

The NKFK provides to the community a Speaker's Bureau to inform and educate clubs, organizations, groups, businesses, and other interested parties in the community about kidney disease and what the NKFK is doing to ease the burden on patients and families affected by this devestating disease. If your group or organization would like additional information concerning the NKFK's Speaker's Bureau, call (502)585-5433.

U.S. Transplant Games

Provides financial support for Team Kentucky organ transplant athletes to participate in the U.S. Transplant Games, scheduled for 2004. Contact Lisa Allgood, Team Manager.

Kidney Camp

Provides annual sponsorships for kidney patients and their families to attend a weekend camp near Somerset, Kentucky. For more information, contact us.

Kidney Car Program

Offers the public an opportunity to help in the fight against kidney and urological diseases by donating used cars, trucks, motorcycles, RV's and boats. For more information and to arrange free towing, call 800-488-CARS (2277).

GreenFund Network

GreenFund Network is an international association of businesses, groups and individuals setting the standard in conservation and resource management through the emerging trend of printer cartridge recycling.