TAMPA, Fla. September 7, 2004 – The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) cancelled its 31st Annual Convention scheduled for Sept. 2-5, 2004 in Bal Harbour, Fla. This cancellation was due to the occurrence of Hurricane Frances, which recently affected Florida and its neighboring states.

“It is with great sadness that AAKP was forced to cancel its 2004 Annual Convention. However, it is during these trying times that we are reminded of what an outstanding group of volunteers and staff we are so fortunate to have. We would like to extend our greatest appreciation to everyone affiliated with AAKP for the support received throughout this difficult decision,” said AAKP President Brenda Dyson.

Registered attendees will receive all Convention materials, including a detailed Convention notebook, complete with presentations developed by Convention speakers, as well as important attendee information and educational materials. In addition, attendees will receive a Convention program book, t-shirt, tote bag and much more. Attendees will be mailed letters giving them the option of applying their registration payments toward the 2005 Annual Convention, making a tax-deductible gift to AAKP or requesting a full refund.

In an effort to distribute important educational information to kidney patients and their families, AAKP is developing a special Convention-focused issue of its bi-monthly magazine aakpRENALIFE that will include presentations developed by Convention speakers.

AAKP is pleased to announce the selection of Las Vegas as the host city for its 32nd Annual Convention. The event will be held Sept. 1-4, 2005 at the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa.

All individuals with questions or concerns regarding Convention are encouraged visit AAKP’s Web site. Please click here for up-to-date information regarding the organization and its Annual Conventions. Those interested can also contact the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257 or click here.

AAKP is the voluntary, patient organization, which for 35 years, has been dedicated to improving the lives of fellow kidney patients and their families by helping them deal with the physical, emotional and social impact of kidney disease. The programs offered by AAKP inform and inspire patients and their families to better understand their condition, adjust more readily to their circumstances and assume more normal, productive lives in their communities.