Tampa, Fla. – The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) is seeking individuals to serve on its Speakers Bureau for the 2007 Annual Convention and the Kidney Beginnings: Live educational program. Candidates may include patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals.

Patients interested in telling their stories about living with kidney disease (end-stage renal disease and chronic kidney disease) are encouraged to apply. This includes recently diagnosed patients, those on dialysis (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) and transplant recipients. Selected patients will serve on discussion panels to talk about issues and experiences following diagnosis and how they are actively involved in their healthcare.

In addition to patients and healthcare professionals, AAKP is also seeking family members and caregivers who are interested in sharing their experiences related to having a loved one with kidney disease. Their unique viewpoints and knowledge serve as an ideal focal point for panel discussions.

“Serving on AAKP’s Speakers Bureau is extremely rewarding. Being able, as a patient or family member, to share your story with others empowers fellow patients,” stated Kris Robinson, AAKP Executive Director/CEO.

Individuals interested in applying for the AAKP Speakers Bureau should complete the Speakers Bureau Profile Form, available on AAKP’s Web site (www.aakp.org), and return it to AAKP no later than February 26, 2007.