This year, we hit some incredible milestones as an organization and community. I’d like to thank patients, caregivers, volunteers, researchers, physicians and staff for all their time and efforts that contributed to the following achievements:

Carol Grantham’s take on the FDA approving tolvaptan

In April, the Federal Food and Drug Administration approved tolvaptan as the first treatment in the United States for adult patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), the most common form of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). This landmark moment could not have been reached without the endless dedication of researchers and participants involved in clinical trials. We know that this treatment is just the first of many.

Over the summer, we launched PKD Connect, an online hub that offers patients, family and loved ones ways to connect with others who understand the struggle of living with PKD from firsthand experience. Whether you’re looking for information, resources or just a shoulder to lean on, PKD Connect provides the support to keep hope within reach and makes sure that no one has to face PKD alone.

PKD Connect and the Hope Line help support the PKD community

One major component of the support PKD Connect supplies is our Hope Line, 844-PKD-HOPE (844-753-4673). Our team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time to answer questions and direct callers to resources addressing their concerns.

Another accomplishment we made over the summer was awarding research grants to 15 outstanding PKD researchers after receiving a record number of applications. The PKD Foundation funds critical research to increase understanding of the genetic and pathological processes involved in PKD and accelerate the development of potential therapies for PKD patients. We are incredibly excited to see updates and outcomes from these projects over the next two years.

We couldn’t have gotten so close to our goal without Walkers from 53 cities

Rounding out a rather successful year, PKD patients, family and friends joined together for the Walk for PKD in 53 cities around the country. Together, we raised over $1.8 million dollars for PKD research towards new treatments and someday, a cure.

Thank you to everyone who has helped us reach these incredible moments. I’m sure that 2019 has many more in store for us!

Sincerely,
Andy Betts

If you’d like to keep our momentum going strong through these last few days of the year, please consider making a final tax-deductible gift for 2018. Your generosity will help drive pioneering research, robust advocacy and innovative methods of care in 2019 and into the future!