

In lieu of flowers
Background
About National Kidney Foundation
Fueled by passion and urgency, National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. As pioneers of scientific research and innovation, NKF focuses on the whole patient through the lens of kidney health. Relentless in our work, we enhance lives through action, education and accelerating change.Frequently asked questions
Answered by a team member at National Kidney Foundation
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What is your mission?
Fueled by passion and urgency, National Kidney Foundation is a lifeline for all people affected by kidney disease. As pioneers of scientific research and innovation, NKF focuses on the whole patient through the lens of kidney health. Relentless in our work, we enhance lives through action, education and accelerating change.
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What is the history of your organization?
On November 15, 1950, Ada DeBold, and her husband Harry, called the first meeting of the Committee for Nephrosis Research in a desperate attempt to save their child. Several months earlier, the couple's infant son was stricken with nephrosis, a little-known condition that had no real treatment. DeBold was determined to take positive action as she confronted the challenge of parenting a child with an incurable disease and due to her fortitude, the National Nephrosis Foundation (NNF) was born. The NNF was the inaugural lay group that ultimately became the National Kidney Foundation in 1964.