Local Help Groups Some facilities have dialysis and/or transplant consumer groups that meet on a regular basis. The social worker usually helps to organize these meetings.

The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) is a national dialysis and transplant consumer organization with regional chapters to provide support and resources to you and your family. These groups meet on a scheduled basis for education, socializing, fund raising and other events. They often have guest speakers who are specialists or renal health care team members to provide basic as well as what is new and changing in the renal field.
  • National office telephone: 1-800-749-AAKP (2257)
  • Web site: www.aakp.org
  • There are two chapters in New Jersey:
    • Northern NJ Chapter
    • Garrett Mountain Chapter
  • The AAKP updates these contact persons under Chapters at: www.aakp.org

Many dialysis treatment facilities hold regularly scheduled consumer support group meetings. Ask the social worker at your facility when the next meeting will be held. 
 

Renal Support NetworkThe Renal Support Network (RSN) is a nonprofit, patient-focused, patient-run organization that provides non-medical services to those affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). RSN strives to help patients develop their personal coping skills, special talents, and employability by educating and empowering them (and their family members) to take control of the course and management of the disease. A vital role of RSN is to provide lawmakers and policymakers with the patients' perspective on the needs and capabilities of people with CKD.

Transplant Recipient International Organization (TRIO) TRIO is the Transplant Recipient International Organization. It holds regularly scheduled meetings. New Jersey patients are serviced by the Philadelphia chapter. The contact person is Jim Gleason at 609-877-4493 or gleasonjim@aol.com.