KIDNEY HEALTH AWARENESS
The Kidney Health Awareness Group (KHAG) is an initiative of the Mount Baker Foundation dedicated to improving kidney health through education, advocacy, and community partnership.
GET INVOLVED
Kidney Heath Awareness Group
The Kidney Health Awareness Group (KHAG) is an workgroup of the Mount Baker Foundation dedicated to improving kidney health through education, advocacy, and community partnership.
We work to prevent chronic kidney disease and diabetes by increasing public awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting equitable access to care and transplant resources.
Grounded in equity, KHAG collaborates with local clinics, providers, and community organizations to share culturally relevant information and strengthen connections to care. Together, we aim to build healthier communities and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Interested in getting involved? Email kate@mtbakerfoundation.org
When you give a kidney as a living donor, you save a life. People choose to donate a kidney for many reasons. Some donate to a family member or friend in need, others act because they want to make a difference in someone’s life, even if they don’t know the person.
In the U.S., over 90,000 people are on the kidney transplant waiting list. In 2020, only about 17,000 people received a kidney from a deceased donor. More than 4000 people die each year while waiting for a kidney transplant. Additionally, organs transplanted from living donors typically last longer than from a deceased donor, allowing the recipient a chance at a better quality of life.
When you give a kidney as a living donor, you save a life. People choose to donate a kidney for many reasons. Some donate to a family member or friend in need. Others act because they want to make a difference in someone’s life, even if they don’t know that person.
LIVING KIDNEY DONORS SAVE LIVES
How to Become a Donor:
Most of us have two healthy kidneys, and you may be able to donate one of your kidneys to enhance or save someone else's life. Both you and the recipient of your kidney can live with just one healthy kidney.
Contact a transplant center or a national kidney registry
Complete a medical screening.
Undergo surgery to donate and help save a life.
Types of Kidney Donation
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The donor knows who will receive the donated kidney (this is the most common type of living kidney donation, often between biological relatives who are a match)
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If the donor and intended recipient are not a match, they may match with a different donor- recipient pair. The donors and recipients then get swapped, and each recipient receives a donor kidney. Sometimes, long chains of paired donations occur.
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A donor chooses to donate a kidney to an unknown recipient. These non directed donors often help to create the kidney chains in paired donations as well.
FAQ's about Kidney Donation:
Over 90,000 people in the U.S. are waiting for a kidney transplant.
A healthy person can live with just one kidney and still lead a normal life.
Living kidney donors help reduce wait times and save lives.
Most donation costs are covered by the recipient’s insurance.
You don’t have to be a match to help—paired kidney donation can find the right recipient.
Who Can Donate?
Healthy individuals aged 18-65 with no serious medical conditions.
GET INVOLVED
Kidney Konnections
Are you a kidney patient or caregiver looking for support, connection, and understanding?
The Kidney Konnection is a peer support group offering an opportunity to connect with others who understand. Join for support, encouragement, and practical tips from others in similar situations.
WE MEET
The 4th Wednesday of the month
6-7 pm via Zoom and occasionally in person
GET INFORMED
Email kate@mtbakerfoundation.org to get more information and receive the Zoom link.
EDUCATION
Kidney Disease Prevention
Kidney disease affects millions of Americans, many without even realizing they have it?
Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your kidney health. Anyone can develop CKD - at any age. However, some people are at a higher risk than others.
Genetics as well as many physical, environmental, and social factors can also contribute to risk.
The most common Chronic Kidney Disease risk factors are:
Heart disease and/or heart failure
Obesity
Over the age of 60
Family history of CKD or kidney failure
Personal history of acute kidney injury (AKI)
How can you make a difference in your risk?
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Manage your Blood Glucose
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Control your Blood Pressure
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Eat more Plant-Based Proteins
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Get regular Checkups
(including kidney function tests if you are at risk)
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Hydrate appropriately
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Be careful with Pain medicine (NSAIDS)
