Tampa, Fla. June 30, 2006 -- Now is the time to register for AAKP’s 33rd Annual Convention – the only national gathering of kidney patients, family members and caregivers. Titled "You’re an Essential Piece of Your Healthcare," the 2006 AAKP Annual Convention will be held Aug. 31 – Sept. 3 in Orlando, Fla. This unique event combines educational forums with several 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, or to register for the Convention, please contact the AAKP National Office at (800) 749-2257 or click here.

A Convention Package provides the best value and includes all four days of educational sessions, as well as a souvenir t-shirt, and tickets to Convention social activities, at a cost of $95 for patients and family members and $199 for professionals. The deadline for pre-registration is Aug. 14.

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, as well as caregivers and family members. 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 Kim Buettner at (800) 749-2257 or kbuettner@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.