HELPING RURAL COMMUNITIES DETECT KIDNEY DISEASE EARLIER Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often develops without noticeable symptoms, making early detection an important part of helping people protect their kidney health. Through the CKD Learning Collaborative, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) and Michigan Center for Rural Health (MCRH) worked with six Rural Health Clinics across … [Read more...] about Partner Spotlight: Trinity Medical Group
Adults
Partner Spotlight: Helen Newberry Joy Hospital’s Gibson Family Health Center
HELPING RURAL COMMUNITIES DETECT KIDNEY DISEASE EARLIER Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often has no symptoms in its early stages, which means many people may not know they have it until the disease has progressed. Finding CKD early gives people the opportunity to slow its progression and improve their quality of life. In September 2025, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) partnered … [Read more...] about Partner Spotlight: Helen Newberry Joy Hospital’s Gibson Family Health Center
Kidneys Made Easy 3: Who Is at Risk for Kidney Disease?
Welcome to Kidneys Made Easy, a special summer blog series from the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. Throughout the summer, we'll break down kidney health topics into simple, easy-to-understand information that can help you better understand your health and the important role your kidneys play in your body. Missed the first two Kidneys Made Easy blogs? Catch up on the series and … [Read more...] about Kidneys Made Easy 3: Who Is at Risk for Kidney Disease?
Kidneys Made Easy 2: What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Welcome to Kidneys Made Easy, a special summer blog series from the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. Throughout the summer, we’ll break down kidney health topics into simple, easy-to-understand information that can help you better understand your health and the important role your kidneys play in your body. … [Read more...] about Kidneys Made Easy 2: What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Darlene’s Story: How A Routine Checkup Led to a Life-Changing Diagnosis
Darlene Allison has spent much of her life caring for others. A registered nurse, mother, grandmother, and caregiver for her 87-year-old mother, Darlene has always understood the importance of staying on top of her health, which is why she never missed her annual checkups. What she didn't expect was that a routine appointment would lead to a life-changing diagnosis. During the appointment, her … [Read more...] about Darlene’s Story: How A Routine Checkup Led to a Life-Changing Diagnosis
Kidneys Made Easy 1: What Do Your Kidneys Actually Do?
Welcome to Kidneys Made Easy, a special summer blog series from the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. Throughout the summer, we'll break down kidney health topics into simple, easy-to-understand information that can help you better understand your health and the important role your kidneys play in your body. … [Read more...] about Kidneys Made Easy 1: What Do Your Kidneys Actually Do?
Why We Walk: Judy and Karen’s Story
Judy Perry and Karen Gutman have always been more than cousins. Just five weeks apart in age, they grew up side by side, spending weekends together, sharing family traditions, and forming a bond they describe as “Custers,” cousins who are like sisters. When Judy’s kidney health declined after decades of challenges, that lifelong connection became something even more powerful. Together, they … [Read more...] about Why We Walk: Judy and Karen’s Story
How Medicaid Coverage Supports Kidney Health and Preventive Care
Many people may not realize that Medicaid coverage includes preventive health services that can help protect kidney health and overall wellness. Routine checkups, vaccines, and health screenings are essential tools for preventing serious health conditions. For people at risk of kidney disease, these services can help detect problems early and support long-term health. Through Medicaid, … [Read more...] about How Medicaid Coverage Supports Kidney Health and Preventive Care
National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN
National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN Understanding Your Kidneys March is National Kidney Month, making it the perfect time to talk about two small organs that often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. Your kidneys do a lot: they filter waste and extra fluid from your blood, balance electrolytes and minerals, control blood pressure, and even help … [Read more...] about National Kidney Month: Early Detection Can Save Lives By Laura Kopp, BSN, RN
Meeting People Where They Are: Support for Health Across Michigan
Health doesn’t look the same for everyone, and neither does the path to feeling better. Across Michigan, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) offers free and low-cost programs designed to meet people where they are. Whether someone is managing a chronic condition, working to prevent disease, or simply trying to feel healthier day to day, our programs focus on access, support, and … [Read more...] about Meeting People Where They Are: Support for Health Across Michigan
Celebrating 70 Years: A Look at NKFM’s Impact Across Programs
2025 marked the 70th anniversary of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan — seven decades of improving kidney health, expanding prevention efforts, and supporting communities across the state. As we celebrate 70 years, we’re taking a moment to recognize the work happening right now across our programs. These snapshots highlight the communities we serve, the partnerships we’ve built, and the … [Read more...] about Celebrating 70 Years: A Look at NKFM’s Impact Across Programs
What Is Health Literacy, and Why It Matters for Your Kidney Health
October is Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize how understanding your health information empowers you to take control of your well-being. At the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), we believe knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for prevention and early action, especially when it comes to kidney disease. … [Read more...] about What Is Health Literacy, and Why It Matters for Your Kidney Health