Published on May 31, 2022 | In the early 2000s, the PKD Connect Conference originated as the PKD Foundation National Convention. This educational event brings together every part of the PKD community to provide information, research, tools, resources, and networking opportunities. Taking place June 24–25, the PKD Foundation will virtually host PKDCON 2022. This year, there’s a lot to be excited about.

What’s in Store for PKDCON 2022

When it comes to empowering patients, the PKD Foundation knows education is at the top of the list. For nearly 20 years, the Foundation has hosted PKDCON with the goal of uniting members of the PKD community through education and connection. And PKDCON 2022 will build on that goal.

Although we can’t be together in person, attendees can expect the same commitment to the most current information from the safety of their own home. Like previous years, patients and families can still connect with other members of the community. Researchers will still present the latest developments in PKD research studies and clinical trials. PKD-knowledgeable healthcare providers will, again, offer guidance on disease management.

First Time Attending? Here’s What to Expect

If this is your first time attending, you might be wondering what to expect. Over the course of the weekend, you’ll hear from experts on the topics most important to PKD families. And there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re newly diagnosed, considering dialysis or transplant, or caring for someone with PKD. For parents of children with PKD, there’s a session for your needs. Here are a few of this year’s topics.

• How to Find a Living Donor

• Managing Health Issues at School

• End Stage Kidney Disease: Kidney Failure and What to Expect

• Communicating with Your Health Care Team

Through our digital platform, Swapcard, conference attendees have the opportunity to meet other patients and families and share their experiences. Along with connection opportunities, the conference helps patients and caregivers understand how to advocate for themselves. With increasing knowledge of the disease experience and ongoing research, we hope to facilitate better patient outcomes and empower our community.

For more session details, check out the full list of topics and speakers on our agenda.

Jeremy Poincenot

PKDCON 2022 Keynote Speaker

To kick off the event, Jeremy Poincenot will be joining us as this year’s keynote speaker. At the age of 19, Jeremy suddenly lost his vision. Like PKD, he suffers from a rare genetic disorder— Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)— that currently has no treatments or a cure. Despite his vision loss, he’s competed alongside his dad to win two World and eight National Blind Golf Championships. He’ll be sharing his story and how he remains positive while coping with a genetic disease.

To hear Jeremy’s story and sessions from countless PKD experts, register for PKDCON 2022 today.

PKDCON 2022 is made possible through the support of our generous sponsors, including Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.

Can’t make it? Support the event through a donation!