The PREPARE NOW study team, located throughout North America, have been hard at work developing a new patient-centered kidney care intervention for over a year.  Because of the varied locations, most work is done over one-hour conference calls for many of the workgroups. Today though, many of the members convened in Durham, North Carolina - most of them meeting in person for the first time. This session was a way for the members to come together to see the progress that has been done so far, as well as discuss the roadmap for the future of the study. 

In the long term, the findings in this study will provide important information on how to improve the health and well being of patients as they transition from chronic kidney disease to kidney failure. The intervention is scheduled to launch this June.

Mark your calendars now! World Kidney Day (WKD) is only one month away! WKD takes place every year on the second Thursday in March, and is a global awareness campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of all kidneys. This year's theme is "Kidney Disease & Obesity". Before the big day arrives on March 9th, we thought it would be a good idea to discuss what this day symbolizes. 

What is World Kidney Day?
It is a global awareness campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys. World Kidney Day comes back every year and events are formed all around the world. We do it all to create awareness; awareness about preventive behaviors, awareness about risk factors, and awareness about how to live with  kidney disease. 

Why is this day important?
Between 8-10% of the adult population have some form of kidney damage. If Chronic Kidney Disease is detected early and managed appropriately, the deterioration in kidney function can be slowed or even stopped. So this day (as well as everyday) we are working hard to spread awareness, tips, and support so everyone can be more informed of their kidney health. 

What can I do to get involved in WKD?
​You can be as involved in WKD as you'd like. Here are some ideas of ways you can get involved: 

• Spread the word! Use your social media accounts, use your mouth, use anything in your power to help us raise awareness! 
• Organize a WKD event! Celebrate World Kidney Day by organizing an
  awareness event in your community. Whatever you plan, you will help reach more people and make them aware of the importance of their kidneys.

For more information on World Kidney Day, free WKD materials, events going on in your area, and more, visit www.worldkidneyday.org.