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
Kidney Disease
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
Bright Orange, Big Impact: NKFM’s Community Outreach Team
At health fairs, senior expos, back to school fairs, and other community events, you might see the bright orange tablecloth of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and the smiling face of one of our Community Outreach team members. The Community Outreach team acts as ambassadors spreading awareness of kidney disease, its risk factors, way to prevent kidney disease, and NKFM’s programs and … [Read more...] about Bright Orange, Big Impact: NKFM’s Community Outreach Team
National Immunization Awareness Month: What You Need to Know
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), and this is an opportunity to highlight the importance of vaccination for all people. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing diseases, serious complications and death for several illnesses. For families with children, NIAM is an opportunity to ensure that the children are up to date on their vaccines before the start of the school … [Read more...] about National Immunization Awareness Month: What You Need to Know
Fighting Together: Liz and Mike’s Story of Love, Resilience, and Kidney Advocacy
Mike Chicalas is no stranger to kidney disease. His mother, uncle, and grandmother all battled it. Around age 24, Mike began experiencing kidney problems and started dialysis. He received his first transplant in 2007, thanks to a kidney donated by his sister. When complications forced its removal three years later, he returned to dialysis and eventually received a second transplant from a deceased … [Read more...] about Fighting Together: Liz and Mike’s Story of Love, Resilience, and Kidney Advocacy
“Finding Your Way”: A Guide to Navigating Michigan’s Social Systems
When navigating the social safety net feels overwhelming, a clear, accessible guide can make all the difference. That’s exactly why Finding Your Way: A Roadmap to Social Systems and Resources was created. Developed by Shaun Taft, LMSW, MSA, a longtime community organizer and NKFM employee, Finding Your Way is a user-friendly guidebook designed to help individuals, and those who support them, … [Read more...] about “Finding Your Way”: A Guide to Navigating Michigan’s Social Systems
50 Simple Stress Reducers for a Healthier Mind and Body
Get up fifteen minutes earlier in the morning. The inevitable morning mishaps will be less stressful. Prepare for the morning the evening before. Set the breakfast table, make lunches, put out the clothes you plan to wear, etc. Don't rely on your memory. Write down appointment times, when to pick up the laundry, when library books are due, etc. Make duplicates of all keys. Bury a house … [Read more...] about 50 Simple Stress Reducers for a Healthier Mind and Body
Kidney-Friendly Grill Recipes
Warm weather is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and break out the grill! With several holidays during the summer season, these kidney-friendly recipes from the National Kidney Foundation are perfect for any gathering. Click here to see more recipes the NKF has to offer. *Everyone has different nutritional needs. Ask a kidney dietitian or a healthcare provider for advice in creating … [Read more...] about Kidney-Friendly Grill Recipes