TAMPA, Fla. April 21, 2005 -- Now is the time to register for AAKP’s 32nd Annual Convention – the only national gathering of kidney patients, family members and caregivers. Titled "Quality First: Patients Driving Excellence," the 2005 AAKP Annual Convention will be held Sept. 1-4 in Las Vegas. This unique event combines educational forums with exciting social events.

The Convention Brochure is now available and includes a registration form and detailed agenda, along with information on dialysis arrangements and travel discounts. To request a copy of the brochure, please contact the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257 or click here. Current AAKP members will automatically receive the brochure through the mail.

Registration fees for the three-day event are $95 for patients and family members and $150 for professionals. The Convention Package includes all three days of educational sessions, social events, two dinners, two continental breakfasts, one full breakfast and a Convention T-shirt. The deadline for pre-registration is Aug. 1.

AAKP’s Annual Convention provides the most up-to-date information for patients of all stages of kidney disease, including chronic kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation. Session topics are presented by the nation’s leading healthcare professionals and include exploring all treatment options, understanding reduced kidney function, an in-depth look at transplantation, and a complete guide to nutrition, to name just a few.

For specific information regarding exhibit, advertisement, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Kristy Kuna at (800) 749-2257 or kkuna@aakp.org.

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.