TAMPA, Fla. September 9, 2005 -- In early September, the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) developed the AAKP Disaster Relief Fund to aid kidney disease patients affected by Hurricane Katrina. Due to generous contributions from dedicated individuals and companies, AAKP is able to use this fund to provide grants to these patients.

A grant application and instructions will be available in mid October. Individuals interested in applying can visit the AAKP Web site at www.aakp.org or contact the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257 or info@aakp.org.

It is estimated that more than 5,000 dialysis patients were affected by Hurricane Katrina. Dialysis patients require dialysis treatments – usually several times a week – to remove toxins from the body.

For those interested in donating to the AAKP Disaster Relief Fund – there is still time. Monetary donations can be made via check or credit card. All checks must say Disaster Relief Fund in the memo area. To donate via credit card, visit the Hurricane Relief link at www.aakp.org or call the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257.

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.