TAMPA, Fla. November 1, 2005 -- The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), in conjunction with Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA), is pleased to conclude the 2005 series of the Quarter Century Recognition Program honoring FMCNA patients who have been on dialysis for 25 years or more.

In 2005, AAKP and FMCNA recognized more than 160 patients for their inspiring longevity in living with kidney failure. Each award recipient received a congratulatory letter, medal and plaque, as well as a one-year complimentary membership to AAKP.

“This program acknowledges the dedication and determination each dialysis patient exemplifies every day of their lives, and celebrates their success in effectively living with their condition,” said AAKP President Brenda Dyson.

Most of these long-term patients credit their years of successful dialysis to active lifestyles and participation in regular exercise programs such as walking, keeping busy with housework, lifting weights and swimming. Many of the recognized patients travel, while others work or spend time with loved ones.

Currently, more than 12 million Americans have reduced kidney function, which can lead to kidney failure. The leading causes of kidney failure are diabetes and hypertension. Each year, the Quarter Century Recognition Program brings awareness to the positive results of dialysis therapy and spreads the message that a normal life does not end when dialysis treatments begin.

For more information, please contact the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257. If you are interested in learning more about dialysis treatment, please click here. To find the FMCNA facility nearest you, please click here or call 866-4DIALYSIS (866-434-2597).

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 Fresenius Medical Care – FMCNA operates the nation’s largest network of dialysis facilities (nearly 1,200 dialysis facilities across the country) and is a leading manufacturer of dialysis products. In every facility, the goal is that every patient can experience excellence through UltraCare^®, representing the commitment of the entire Fresenius Medical Care organization to deliver the highest standard of care to patients, focused on excellent dialysis treatment, achieved through innovative methods, the latest technology, and exemplary customer service.