Tampa, Fla., July 27, 2009 – The 36th Annual American Association of Kidney Patient’s (AAKP) National Convention is being held in Denver, Colo., Sept. 3-5. Individuals coping with kidney disease and their loved ones are encouraged to attend. The Convention takes place at the Hyatt Regency Denver. It is the largest event of its kind, bringing patients, family members and health care professionals together for three-days of learning and exciting social events.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 26 million Americans. It is a disease that damages the kidneys and decreases their ability to keep individuals healthy. CKD often leads to kidney failure which may require dialysis or kidney transplantation. The AAKP National Convention holds several educational sessions where kidney patients and their family members can learn about their condition and treatment options. It is also an opportunity for patients to interact on a person-to-person basis with fellow patients and health care professionals.

“I’ve attended the AAKP Convention for many years. And each year I learn something new, and it’s always helpful to share experiences with fellow patients,” stated Sam Pederson, AAKP Convention Chairman and kidney transplant recipient. “I encourage all kidney patients to attend this event, even if it’s just for a day of sessions.”

One-day registration for patients/family members is only $25 per day. Health care professional one-day registration is $50 per day. Full Convention registration packages start at $90 for patients/family members and $190 for health care professionals. The full Convention registration packages include three days of educational sessions, a souvenir t-shirt, tote bag and tickets to the First Time Attendees’ Luncheon, Welcome Reception, Welcoming Ceremonies and Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony. For additional information please contact AAKP at (800) 749-2257.

The Hyatt Regency Denver is located at 650 15th Street, Denver. For more information about the AAKP National Convention visit www.aakp.org/events/convention/2009.

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AAKP is the voluntary, patient organization, which for 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.