Tampa, Fla., November 17, 2008 – The American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its former Executive Director/CEO, Kris Robinson. Ms. Robinson died this morning in her parents Clearwater, Fla., home. She led the patient organization for 18 years and worked diligently to improve the lives of all kidney patients.

“Kris’ passing is felt by all in the renal community,” said AAKP President Roberta Wager, RN, MSN. “Her commitment to AAKP was unsurpassed and her vast contributions will always be remembered. She is missed greatly.”

During her time at AAKP, Ms. Robinson was influential in many of its achievements. She represented AAKP before organizations around the world, including appointment to the Health and Human Services Advisory Board on the Demonstration of a Bundled Case-Mix Adjusted Payment System for ESRD Services, Health and Human Services (HHS) Advisory Committee on Organ Transplantation, and various committees of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Ms. Robinson also testified before Congress on healthcare issues, and wrote and spoke frequently on kidney care issues, patient partnership in their healthcare and rehabilitation, legislative issues and managed care.

“As AAKP begins to celebrate its 40th anniversary, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Kris Robinson. For nearly half of the organization’s history, Kris played an instrumental role as its leader,” stated Acting AAKP Executive Director Kim Buettner. “Her devotion to AAKP and kidney patients throughout the country will always be remembered. AAKP and the kidney community have lost a true pioneer and visionary.”

AAKP will celebrate Ms. Robinson’s life and accomplishments in the January 2009 issue of aakpRENALIFE, the organization’s premiere publication which is distributed to 25,000 subscribers nationwide.  For additional information contact AAKP at 800-749-AAKP or visit here for more information on Ms. Robinson’s accomplishments.

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AAKP is the voluntary, patient organization, which for nearly 40 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.