A major complication of diabetes is damage to the kidneys. While diabetes isn't the only cause of kidney problems, a significant number of people with kidney failure or on dialysis have diabetes. The Kidney Society has been working in the community for over 40 years and an important role for them is "connecting people to the vital information, education and support services they need to preserve their kidney health and live a better quality of life diagnosed with kidney disease".
John Loof of The Kidney Society visited our office today and we had an excellent discussion about how our organisations can collaborate on beneficial projects. Diabetes Foundation Aotearoa and The Kidney Society have many things in common, particularly wanting the best outcomes for people in our communities with or at risk of the serious health conditions our organisations work with. As an exciting starting point, we talked in detail around the area of what information resources are currently available and how best to make sure the right messages are passed on in the right way to people at risk of kidney damage, with kidney damage, and those potentially getting ready to need dialysis. Watch this space in the New Year!