TAMPA, Fla. May 3, 2005 -- The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) and Genzyme Corporation are pleased to offer kidney disease awareness bracelets as symbols of hope and strength for patients and their loved ones.

Each bracelet contains an inspiring message – Hope, Reach Your Goals and Esperanza (Spanish for hope). For every bracelet requested, Genzyme will make a donation to AAKP in support of its efforts to serve all kidney patients.

AAKP and Genzyme hope the bracelets not only serve as a source of inspiration, but also as a way to create awareness and show support of kidney disease patients. Currently, more than 12 million Americans are affected by kidney disease.

UPDATE: As of April 23, 2008, the awareness bracelets are no longer available.

AAKP is the voluntary, patient organization, which for more than 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.

About Genzyme Corporation – One of the world's leading biotechnology companies, Genzyme is dedicated to making a major positive impact on the lives of people with serious diseases. Founded in 1981, Genzyme has grown from a small start-up to a diversified enterprise with annual revenues exceeding $2 billion and more than 7,000 employees in locations spanning the globe. With many established products and services helping patients in more than 80 countries, Genzyme is a leader in the effort to develop and apply the most advanced technologies in the life sciences. The company's products and services are focused on rare inherited disorders, kidney disease, orthopaedics, cancer, transplant and immune diseases, and diagnostic testing. Genzyme's commitment to innovation continues today with a substantial development program focused on these fields, as well as heart disease and other areas of unmet medical need.