Kids & Teens: Living with Kidney Disease & Transplantation (Ages 13 - 21)
armed with education
helping young patients live healthy, happy lives
Teenagers, young adults, and their families will meet with physicians, dietitians, and relevant medical practitioners for a morning of hands-on education, and an afternoon of throw-your-hands-in-the-air fun. While parents begin the day talking with experts and participating in a series of kidney-health discussions, our young patients will enjoy an interactive learning experience with healthcare professionals that allows them to understand their diagnosis in an understanding, supportive environment. Educational topics may cover any of the following areas:
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Information about new medicine
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Managing a kidney transplant
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Emotional support and wellness
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Dialysis options
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Breakthroughs in technology
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Healthy snacks and nutrition
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get registered
Ready for an exciting day of education and activities?
Click below to reserve your spot.
relive the memories
From the educational stations to artistic expression to thrilling roller coasters, relive the fun of the day.
Click below to view photos from the 2019 event.
sponsor the program
Help us keep events like this one free for patients and families by exploring our sponsorship opportunities.
schedule & information
plan what to expect
Virtual
To keep teens and their families safe while they're connecting, we're holding this year's event virtually. Log in from the comfort of home -
we'll send you all the necessary program materials.
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Log-in provided upon registration
Registrants and their families will receive a special gift in the mail. The gift box will include fun giveaways and all necessary program materials. Be sure to include your mailing address at registration to receive your gift.
Seminar Schedule
SATURDAY, MAY 22, 2021
9:00 am Introduction – Welcome
Mateo Solis Rueda, MPH | NKFI Programs Associate
9:05am Nutrition & Bingo Activity
Nicoletta Alavanja, MS, RD, LDN | Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Melissa Prest, DCN, MS, RDN, LDN | NKFI Dietician
9:25am Panel Discussion: Conversation with Teens &
Young Adults
Austin Lee | American Association of Kidney Patients
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9:50am Your Kidneys & Exercising
Alexis King, M.A., PhD Student | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
10:10am Teens vs Parents Kidney Jeopardy
10:30am Break
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10:35am Educational Session for Parents
Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care
Dr. Cybele Ghossein, MD | Northwestern Medicine
10:55am Message from Team IMPACT
Kiernan McGeehan, Regional Director of Programs | Team IMPACT
pictures from past events
scenes from the path to health
2019
Gallery
2018
Gallery
program sponsors
helping children plan their futures
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is able to successfully impact the lives of young people, their families, and their communities with the help of our dedicated sponsors.
For more information on sponsoring this program, please contact Heidi Merritt at hmerritt@nkfi.org or 312-321-1500.
support programs for
kids & teens
you make the difference
Help the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois create more programming for kids, teenagers, by supporting our work. Click below to learn more about how you can play a role in supporting young people, and in advancing our mission.
Ways to Give
Whether you give monthly, gift stocks, or donate through work: your generosity is at the core of all our work.
Sponsor an Event
Demonstrate your support of the NKFI, and make a major impact in the fight against kidney disease.
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Join the NKFI in our work by volunteering, becoming an advocate, or hosting your own #TeamKidney event.
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improving lives, improving communities
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educational
events
Take control of your own health and connect with experts and resources at one of our free educational seminars.
professional
programs
Learn from leaders in the field and deepen your understanding of CKD at an NKFI professional development day.
GIVE THE GIFT OF A SECOND CHANCE.