Questions to Ask Your Kidney Care Team

Education - education, kidney care - August 31, 2026

Finding out you have kidney disease can be overwhelming. Kidney disease is often called a “silent disease” because it can have very few noticeable symptoms, and early warning signs can easily be mistaken for other health issues. As a result, many people don’t discover they have kidney problems until the disease has progressed.

While a kidney disease diagnosis can feel scary, there are lifestyle changes and treatment options that can help you preserve kidney function, feel better, and potentially slow the progression of the disease.

One of the best ways to take an active role in your kidney health is to understand your treatment options and know what questions to ask your care team. In this guide, we’ll share important questions to ask your kidney care team so you can feel more informed and confident about your care.

1. What stage of kidney disease do I have?

The stage of kidney disease you have will determine how your doctor recommends treating it. Stage one indicates a small amount of kidney damage, and stage five occurs when your kidneys have failed. Your stage of kidney disease depends on your GFR number, which you can learn more about here. Talk to your kidney care team to learn what stage you’re at now and ask what you can do to try to prevent your kidney disease from progressing further.

Kidney disease stage	GFR	About your kidney function
1	>90	Normal GFR. Other signs of kidney injury, such as blood or protein in the urine, may still exist and indicate a slight loss of kidney function.
2	60-89	Mild GFR decrease from the normal rate. This could be normal for your age or indicate early kidney disease.
3	30-59	Kidney function is low. See a nephrologist to learn about treatments you can do now and lifestyle changes you can make to prevent further damage.
4	15-29	Severe kidney disease. See a nephrologist – a kidney doctor – regularly to learn how to protect your remaining kidney function, prepare for dialysis or find out more about a kidney transplant.
5	0-14	End-stage renal disease. Dialysis or kidney transplant is necessary to prolong life.

2. What can I do to slow the progression of kidney disease?

Lifestyle changes can play a big role in slowing the progression of kidney disease. Quit smoking, manage your blood pressure and your blood sugar, and work with a dietitian to help you follow a kidney-friendly diet. Limiting sodium, for example, can help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications. Regular exercise can also help preserve kidney function and help with potential complications like heart disease or diabetes. Make sure to take recommended medications but avoid those that can damage the kidneys, like NSAID pain relievers such as ibuprofen, unless your doctor tells you they are safe for you. You can also ask your doctor to help you put together a nutrition and exercise plan to try to slow the progression of your kidney disease.

3. What treatment options are available to me?

The treatment options available to you depend on the stage of kidney disease that you have. Changing your lifestyle, following a low-sodium diet, managing your blood pressure and blood sugar, and exercising regularly can help in the early stages of kidney disease. If your kidney disease reaches stage 5, you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive. Many clinics offer dialysis treatments in a center, which are usually for about four to five hours at a time, three times a week. Some clinics also offer home dialysis, training you to do dialysis in the comfort of your own home. A kidney transplant, although not a cure, is another treatment option that can offer the best quality of life for people with kidney failure. Ask your doctor which treatment options are available so you can decide what’s best for you.

4. Who is part of my kidney care team, and what does each person do?

Your care team will likely be made up of a nephrologist (kidney doctor), a nurse, dialysis technician, dietitian, social worker, and a member of our benefits and billing team. Each person on your care team has a special role. Your nephrologist will oversee your health and care, while a nurse and dialysis technician will be looking after you in the dialysis clinic. Our dietitians are experts in kidney disease and are there to support you with the kidney diet, helping you understand the foods that are best for you as well as the ones you should avoid. The entire team is there to support you throughout your journey with kidney disease.

5. What should I know about eating well with kidney disease?

The kidney diet can seem overwhelming at first, which is why we have specialized renal dietitians as part of our team. These dietitians understand the kidney diet inside and out and are an incredible resource to you. They will meet with you regularly, and you are encouraged to reach out if you want to talk about the kidney diet at any stage. What you eat specifically will depend on the type of treatment and the stage of kidney disease you are in. People who are in stage 3, for example, will follow a different diet from those in stage 5 and on dialysis. Rest assured, you don’t need to have all the answers now. Your dietitian will meet with you to go over the specific foods that are OK for you.

Your kidney care team is there to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them with any questions you have.

Amy’s Story of Resilience, Recovery, and Second Chances

Patient stories - dialysis, patient stories - June 16, 2026

At first glance, Amy’s bright smile and determined spirit don’t reveal the extraordinary journey she has traveled to get here.

Amy is a proud mother of two boys, a dialysis patient, a college student, a recovery advocate, and a woman rebuilding her life one step at a time, quite literally.

Years ago, after receiving a kidney transplant, Amy experienced a series of personal struggles that eventually led to addiction, declining health, and the heartbreaking loss of her transplanted kidney. Ashamed and overwhelmed, she stopped attending medical appointments and drifted further from the support she needed.

“I had given up on myself,” Amy shared honestly.

Her health deteriorated rapidly. Eventually, severe infection and sepsis led to the amputation of both of her legs above the knee. Doctors told her she might not survive.

But Amy did survive.

What followed was not an overnight transformation, but a journey of recovery. Supported by her family, healthcare providers, her dialysis team at Puget Sound Kidney Centers, and her own fierce determination, Amy committed herself to rebuilding her life.

She returned to dialysis consistently. She learned how to navigate life with prosthetic legs. She taught herself to walk again in just six months, far sooner than expected. She learned to drive independently and began setting goals for her future.

Today, Amy is thriving in ways she once had not thought possible.

She is pursuing college courses in addiction studies and human services, making the honor roll along the way. She has completed recovery coach training and now leads a women’s support group for individuals navigating recovery, homelessness, domestic violence, and other life challenges.

“I want people to know recovery is possible,” Amy said. “You can lose everything and still rebuild your life.”

Throughout her journey, Amy says dialysis care and the encouragement of those around her helped restore not only her health, but her confidence and sense of purpose.

Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is about more than medical treatment. It is about compassion, dignity, support, and believing in people even when they struggle to believe in themselves.

Today, Amy continues working toward another kidney transplant while raising her sons and helping others find hope in their own journeys.

And perhaps most importantly, she no longer defines herself by what she lost but by everything she fought to regain.

Pack a Picnic: Kidney-Friendly Recipes for Spring & Summer

Uncategorized - kidney friendly eating, recipe - May 6, 2026

For many of us, the warmer weather has officially arrived. Now that we’re in the heart of spring, and with summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy this beautiful world we live in. Spending time in the great outdoors supports both our physical and mental health. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, walking, or simply relaxing on a blanket with a good book and some fresh air, it’s a great opportunity to pack a picnic and head out for the day.

Bringing your own food on your adventure not only helps you save money, but it also saves time and energy by avoiding the hassle of reading labels and searching for kidney-friendly options. Pack up some of your favorites or try a few of the recipes below. Each one is low in sodium, kidney-friendly, and ideal for taking along as you spend time in nature.

1. White Bean Spinach Artichoke Dip.

This white bean spinach artichoke dip is one of our favorites! So flavorful, with herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a good protein source thanks to the white beans. It’s simple to make ahead of time and travels well. Serve with chopped vegetables, especially carrots and cucumber, as well as kidney-friendly crackers or pita bread.

2. Macaroni Tuna Salad.

Pasta salads are a classic picnic staple, and it’s easy to see why. This tuna salad is easy to make and delicious served cold, straight from the cooler. With tuna for protein and onion and roasted red peppers for added flavor, it’s a must-have on your picnic menu.

3. Chicken ’n’ Grape Salad Sandwich.

Another classic picnic item, this chicken and grape salad can be served on its own or in a roll. Make the salad ahead of time, chill it, then preserve freshness by assembling it in a roll or pita bread when you arrive at your picnic spot.

4. Cabbage Slaw.

We could eat this cabbage slaw every day! It’s the perfect side dish, adding a bit of crunch to your meal. Another item that’s simple to make ahead and delicious served chilled, it’s a must for your picnic menu.

5. No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Bars.

Every picnic needs a bit of sweetness, and these protein bars tick all the boxes. A hearty, chewy peanut butter chocolate bar, they’re great to bring along on a hike for an energy boost. They’re so easy to make (no baking required!) and are sure to keep you going throughout your outdoor adventure.

Now that you have the food taken care of, it’s time to start planning! Look for nearby hikes or walking routes, or plan a simple afternoon at a local park. Getting out of your own home and into new surroundings is a surefire way to boost your mood, lift your energy, and make your picnic feel like a true escape.

What are your favorite picnic recipes? Will you be giving any of the above a try? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!

Note: Be sure to consult your dietitian or healthcare provider for guidance on portion sizes and ingredient choices that fit your individual kidney dietary needs.

Wrapped in Hope: Quilts that Bring Comfort and Connection to Whidbey Island Patients

Community - dialysis, patient stories - April 23, 2026

At Puget Sound Kidney Centers, care goes far beyond treatment. Sometimes, it begins with something as simple as a forgotten blanket and grows into something extraordinary.

When Lisa T, Administrative Assistant at our Whidbey Island clinic, first joined PSKC, she was tasked with cleaning out patient lockers. Inside, she found a beautiful pineapple quilt, along with several fleece blankets. She took them home, washed them, and gave most away but something told her to hold onto the quilt.

A few weeks later, a nurse asked if there was an extra blanket for a patient who had forgotten theirs. Lisa knew immediately she had saved that quilt for a reason.

The pineapple quilt became a shared comfort, washed and available for any patient who needed warmth during treatment. And stitched onto that quilt was a small tag: Quilters on the Rock Whidbey Island.

For months, Lisa thought about reaching out. One day, she mentioned the idea to Pauline, a PSKC patient, who smiled and encouraged her: “They love doing it, and need something to do.” They both laughed. Lisa sent an email. The response was immediate and enthusiastic. “This sounds like something we can make happen.”

What happened next was more than anyone expected.

After meeting with members of the quilting group, one comment changed everything: “Well, they all deserve a quilt.” With that, Quilters on the Rock committed not only to providing quilts for new patients but also for every current patient at the PSKC Whidbey Island clinic, which is about 44 patients.

Soon after, the first round of more than 20 handmade quilts arrived at the clinic.

Each one is unique, created with care, creativity, and collaboration. Some are made start to finish by one quilter, while others are assembled in group “play days,” where members come together to piece, quilt, and bind them. Every quilt represents hours of work and a deep desire to give back.

When the quilts were ready to be shared, Pauline, the patient who first encouraged the connection, was invited to choose the very first one.

As she entered the room, her face lit up. Surrounded by color, texture, and craftsmanship, she took it all in with wonder. And then, in a moment that felt meant to be, she began talking about her dear friend Leon, a quilter.

As the conversation unfolded, it became clear: Leon was connected to the very same quilting community standing in the room.

A full-circle moment. One of those quiet, powerful reminders that kindness has a way of finding its way exactly where it’s needed.

“It warms my heart to see all this,” Pauline shared, holding the quilt she had chosen.

For patients receiving dialysis, often spending 3-4 hours in treatment 3 times each week, these quilts offer more than warmth. They offer dignity, comfort, and connection.

Lisa now carefully washes each quilt before it is given, just as she did with that very first one. And with every new patient who receives a quilt, the impact continues to grow.

“It’s such a great feeling,” Lisa shared. “Patients are truly humbled by the gesture.”

Because of the generosity of Quilters on the Rock and supporters like you, our patients are not only cared for, they are wrapped in compassion, community, and hope.

Sometimes, the smallest moments, like saving a quilt, turn into something much bigger than we ever imagined.

Quilters on the Rock

Mr. & Mrs. Hollywood: Finding Freedom, Faith, and Family Through Home Dialysis

Community - dialysis, patient stories - April 7, 2026

At Puget Sound Kidney Centers’ Port Townsend clinic, Jerry and CeCe are known affectionately as “Mr. and Mrs. Hollywood.” They arrive at each monthly appointment with a spread of food for the staff, warm smiles, and a deep sense of gratitude despite a journey with kidney disease that began in fear and uncertainty.

“We went in pretty scared,” Jerry recalls. “But from the very beginning, we had the absolute best care. They made me feel comfortable and treated me with such kindness all the way through.” Jerry and CeCe give high praise to all of the PSKC staff they have worked with, from Port Townsend clinic’s medical director Dr. Gill, to their “beautiful angel Joel, and the wonderful Nurse Vickie with her beautiful smile that greets us every time.”

The happily retired couple, former Seattleites who spent 30 years in Los Angeles where Jerry was chef/owner of a restaurant that CeCe calls “the best on the planet”, returned to Washington to be closer to family. Not long after, Jerry’s learned he needed to begin dialysis. What followed was a life-changing transition to peritoneal dialysis (PD) at home, with CeCe as his dedicated care partner.

“CeCe really takes care of me,” Jerry says. “She handles so much of what I need to do to be on this system.”

With her background as a nurse’s aide in the Air Force and a lifelong exposure to healthcare through her mother who was a newborn ICU nurse, CeCe embraced the complex training. “When we got the nighttime PD machine, it was God’s gift,” she says. “It gave him his strength back.”

After a difficult period on in-center hemodialysis during a surgical recovery, the difference was unmistakable. “With home PD, I really have no bad effects,” Jerry shares. “It gave me my life back.”

Their journey has not been without challenges including supply disruptions, power outages, and the long, uncertain wait for a transplant. In every moment, the PSKC team has been there. They still talk about the night a staff member, Joel, drove through a blizzard to deliver warm dialysis solution so Jerry could safely complete his treatment.

“I will never forget that,” CeCe says. “I can call anytime, and they are there for us.”

For staff, the impact is mutual. “They are supportive and so thankful for their care,” says nurse Vickie. “They both encouraged me to finish school, and it gave me the strength to finish.

Today, Jerry is active on the transplant list and looking toward the future with hope. “On a good day, I feel it’s coming my way,” he says.

To PSKC donors, CeCe offers a simple message: “Your money is well spent. This is the best organization on the planet.”

And Jerry adds, “It’s the best family you could ask for at a time like this.”

The Heart of Care: Celebrating Our Social Workers

Staff - March 17, 2026

At Puget Sound Kidney Centers, exceptional dialysis care goes far beyond clinical treatment. Every day, our social workers walk alongside patients and families as advocates, problem-solvers, counselors, and sources of hope. They are often the steady voice patients turn to when life feels overwhelming and their impact reaches into every part of the patient journey.

A new dialysis diagnosis brings more than medical decisions. It means navigating insurance and transportation, adjusting to changes in employment, coping with anxiety or depression, finding access to nutritious food, securing stable housing, and maintaining relationships and independence. Our social workers help patients face these challenges with dignity and confidence. They connect individuals to vital resources, guide them through complex systems, and ensure that no one feels alone in the process.

Their work is not only about solving problems, it is about seeing the whole person. Social workers celebrate milestones, provide encouragement on difficult days, support patients through grief and major life transitions, and help them set goals for the future, including transplantation, returning to work, or improving quality of life. They listen. They advocate. They empower.

For many patients, the social worker is the person who helps them move from fear to stability, and from simply surviving to truly living.

This support also strengthens clinical outcomes. When patients have reliable transportation, stable housing, access to medications, emotional support, and help understanding their care plans, they are more likely to stay engaged in treatment and experience better overall health. Social work is not an “extra” in dialysis care, it is an essential part of the interdisciplinary team that makes whole-person care possible.

Most importantly, our social workers bring humanity into every interaction. They build trusted relationships that can last for years, often becoming one of the most meaningful connections a patient has within their care team.

PSKC social workers are able to connect patients to emergency assistance, nutrition support, and other critical services that remove barriers to care. This is truly Hope in Action, compassionate professionals ensuring that every patient is seen, supported, and valued.

Today, we celebrate our social workers for the expertise, empathy, and unwavering commitment they bring to our community. Their work changes lives in ways that cannot always be measured but are felt every single day.

Why I Became a Social Worker

“When my son was born with a heart defect, I was overwhelmed, under-insured, and low-income. I had a social worker help me in the hospital and I thought, ‘what a great profession — helping people navigate very confusing, scary things with dignity and compassion.’ I started my social work journey shortly afterward and never looked back.”
— Monica

“I became a social worker for many reasons including having a lifelong commitment to social justice and service to others. It’s great to see the light shine in another person’s eyes. I deeply value the human connection.”
— Darcy

“Being a social worker means showing up where life is messy, complicated, and real, and believing that even there, dignity, choice, and hope still matter.”
— Michelle

“I love social work because it gives people a voice when they feel powerless, and reminds me why humanity belongs at the center of healthcare.”
— Cheryl

7 Everyday Habits to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

Health - kidney health tips - March 16, 2026

It’s National Kidney Month, the perfect time to think about kidney health. Your kidneys are powerhouse organs, helping your body remove waste and toxins, produce red blood cells, manage blood pressure, and keep your bones healthy. When kidney function diminishes to a certain level, regular dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant are needed to do the job your kidneys would normally do.

Unfortunately, kidney disease is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause symptoms until it is quite advanced. The good news is that there are many lifestyle changes you can make right now to help keep your kidneys healthy and reduce the likelihood of needing dialysis or a transplant in the future. Here are our top seven everyday habits to keep your kidneys healthy:

1. Watch your blood sugar.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. When your blood sugar is too high, it damages the tiny blood vessels and filters of the kidney, affecting it’s ability to clear toxins and perform other key functions. If you don’t have diabetes, ask your doctor to check your blood sugar to make sure it’s OK. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, manage your blood sugar according to your doctor’s plan to help prevent damage to the kidneys.

2. Manage your blood pressure.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the second leading cause of kidney disease. When blood pressure is high, it can damage the blood vessels that supply the kidneys and reduce the flow of oxygen to them. This can damage kidney tissue and nephrons, making it more difficult for the kidneys to remove waste and excess fluid. Get your blood pressure checked regularly, and if it is high, follow your doctor’s plan to manage it.

3. Quit smoking.

Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels, which leads to poor blood flow to the kidneys. It also causes high blood pressure, which (as noted above) causes your kidneys to work harder, damaging them further as time goes on. If you already have hypertension or diabetes, smoking usually accelerates your path to kidney disease. By quitting smoking, you can help preserve your kidney function for much longer.

4. Follow a low-sodium diet.

The kidneys help filter excess sodium and fluid from the body, so they must work harder when sodium levels are high. A high-sodium diet can also lead to high blood pressure, which damages the blood vessels that supply the kidneys. To lower the sodium in your diet, avoid restaurant meals, which are often high in sodium, and cook at home with fresh foods whenever possible.

5. Drink water.

Drinking water helps your kidneys clear sodium, excess fluid, and other waste from your body. Water also helps keep blood vessels open, allowing them to carry much-needed nutrients to the kidneys. Aim for about eight glasses a day, spread throughout the day, to help keep your kidneys functioning well.

6. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can restrict blood flow to the kidneys. Over time, this can damage the kidneys’ filters and contribute to chronic kidney disease. NSAIDs can also cause the body to retain salt, which may raise blood pressure and further harm the kidneys. To help keep your kidneys healthy, avoid frequent NSAID use or talk to your doctor about taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

7. Exercise regularly.

Exercise is beneficial for many reasons, including kidney health. It helps reduce high blood pressure and regulate blood sugar—two important factors, as hypertension and diabetes are the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. Exercise also improves blood flow, helping the body deliver oxygen and nutrients to the kidneys. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that works for you.

We hope this blog has helped your discover simple habits that can help protect your kidneys and support your overall health. Small daily changes—like staying hydrated, eating smart, staying active, and watching your blood pressure and blood sugar—can truly make a big difference over time.

Managing Stress When You Have Kidney Disease

Education - kidney care, kidney health tips - February 3, 2026

Stress can arise at any point in your journey with kidney disease. Receiving an initial diagnosis can be overwhelming, especially when it comes with changes like adjusting your diet or preparing to start treatment. Stress can also build over time. Dialysis treatments multiple times a week can be physically and emotionally demanding, and managing a chronic condition year after year can take a toll.

Recognizing that stress may be part of your kidney disease journey is an important first step. Finding strategies that work for you to manage that stress can help support your overall well-being and quality of life. Below are four approaches you can try.

1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment. Research shows it can reduce stress, improve your mood and even help with sleep and pain management.

Simple ways to practice mindfulness include:

Deep breathing: Try slow, steady breaths — inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth — for a few minutes each day.

Guided meditation: Apps, videos or audio recordings can guide you through meditation and help you relax, even if you’re new to the practice.

Body awareness: Noticing physical sensations, such as your feet on the floor or your hands resting in your lap, can help ground you when stress feels intense.

Even a few minutes a day can make a meaningful difference.

2. The Power of Support Groups

Kidney disease can feel isolating but you are absolutely not alone. In fact, one in seven adult Americans has kidney disease. Support groups — both in person and online — offer a space to connect with others who truly understand what you’re experiencing. Sharing your story and hearing from others can reduce feelings of loneliness and provide encouragement, practical tips and hope.

Talk to your care team at Puget Sound Kidney Centers about finding a support group that works for you.

3. Counseling and Professional Mental Health Support

Sometimes stress, anxiety or depression can feel too heavy to manage on your own — and that’s okay. Speaking with a mental health professional, such as a counselor, psychologist, or social worker, can be incredibly helpful.

Counseling can provide coping strategies for anxiety or depression and help you adjust to the emotional challenges that often come with kidney disease. If you’re interested in counseling or mental health services, talk to your social worker about available options.

4. Make Time for Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Small, consistent habits can help lower stress and improve overall well-being. This might include maintaining routines that give your day structure and a sense of normalcy, staying connected with friends and family, or making time for activities you enjoy.

Whether it’s reading, listening to music, gentle exercise, gardening, or spending time outdoors, doing things that bring you comfort and enjoyment matters. Self-care also includes getting enough rest, which can sometimes be challenging. If sleep is difficult, talk with your care team for support and guidance.

The bottom line: self-care is not selfish — it’s an essential part of managing a chronic condition.

Being diagnosed with kidney disease can come as a shock. Symptoms are often silent or easy to miss, so many people learn they have kidney disease only after it has progressed. Having to make dietary changes to slow the disease or begin thinking about treatment soon after diagnosis can be stressful.

Acknowledging these challenges and trying one or more of the strategies above can help you manage stress, support your mental health and feel more empowered as you move forward.

CKD Prevention & Education: Reflecting on a decade of impact

Community, Education - December 24, 2025

After ten years, PSKC has made the difficult decision to sunset the CKD Education program. Reflecting on the past decade, what an incredible journey it has been!

How It All Started

With the generous support of a three-year seed grant from the Verdant Health Commission, the program was created with the goals of raising community awareness about CKD, promoting kidney health, and empowering patients. The founding CKD Education team included Dan Blatnik (Director of Social Services), Kathy Harvey (Director of Renal Nutritional Services), and Pam Keech (Chief Medical Officer), as well as Michelle Rowlett (Social Work Supervisor) and Sara Prato (Renal Dietitian) who co-led the initiative. Recognizing that the voice of patients matters, they invited mentors like Bob Crabtree, Mary Beth Walsh, and Don Criscaden to help shape the program, fostering a community-centered, interdisciplinary approach that became a cornerstone for the program.

Growing With Our Community

With the inaugural Survive & Thrive class series launching February 11, 2015, more than 100 people benefited from CKD educational efforts that first year. As interest grew, so did our outreach throughout the region. By listening closely to community needs, we improved patient access with additional class times, offering teaching materials in multiple languages, and strengthening partnerships with local organizations including senior centers, the YMCA, faith-based groups, cultural organizations, and regional health fairs. We are deeply grateful for the meaningful partnership we share with the Tulalip Tribes and inspiration they provided in shaping the program.

The Pandemic

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, the CKD team acted quickly to ensure education remained accessible by pivoting to a virtual platform to allowing people to continue learning safely from home. Recognizing that many families lacked reliable internet access, with support from partners like Union Bank, we created “Kidney Healthy Eating Packets” for distribution through regional food banks and senior meal programs. These packets—available in English, Spanish, and Russian—included kidney-healthy tips and salt-free spice blends. Between 2021 and 2023, more than 7,700 packets reached households coping with food insecurity and limited access to health education.

In 2023, we were thrilled to welcome participants back to the classroom and introducing a hybrid model for delivery of kidney health education, making it easier for everyone to participate and improving access. With our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Durvasula, being named Executive Sponsor of our CKD program in 2024, the curriculum was updated to reflect the newly released KDIGO guidelines, ensuring the program remained current and relevant. We also worked to expand our reach beyond the nephrology community, marketing to health care systems and primary care providers throughout the region.

A Decade of Impact

Through the generous support of grant partners including Verdant, the Tulalip Charitable Fund, Molina Healthcare, Union Bank, and many others who recognize the importance of early kidney health education, our efforts around CKD prevention have reached almost 21,000 people. We have heard countless personal anecdotes from patients and family members about how CKD education has helped them along their health journey and with clinical decision-making. Beyond stories of empowerment, we have seen that high-risk patients who participated in our CKD classes were better prepared for the transition to end stage kidney disease. Work of the CKD Education team has been recognized both locally and nationally with awards from the Verdant Health Commission (2016), as well as the National Kidney Foundation (2022). Additionally, members of our CKD team have presented at local, state, and national conferences, sharing insights and contributing to the broader conversation on CKD care.

The future of CKD Education

What began from humble beginnings evolved into a decade-long commitment to raise awareness about kidney disease, support early diagnosis, and empower patients. Unfortunately, in the face of mounting financial constraints, the PSKC leadership team has made the difficult decision to dissolve the CKD Education program. This was a painful choice, but ultimately necessary to ensure that PSKC continues fulfilling its essential duty to the countless patients who depend on the organization for providing life-sustaining dialysis care. While this chapter may be closing, our commitment to our mission remains strong – we will continue to find new and different ways to support kidney health and well-being in the communities we serve.

We are grateful to our community, partners, and participants for an incredible ten years and thank you for your understanding.

Staying Active with Kidney Disease: Small Steps that Help

Health - fitness tips, kidney health tips - October 28, 2025

Living with kidney disease can bring changes to your daily routine — but one thing that remains important is staying active. Regular movement can help improve your energy, support heart and kidney health, manage blood pressure, and even boost your mood. The good news? You don’t need to start running marathons or spend hours in a gym. There’s so much you can do right now to start having a more active lifestyle.

At Puget Sound Kidney Centers, we encourage everyone to find safe and enjoyable ways to move every day. If you’re enjoying it, you’re more likely to stick with it, so find what works for you! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Start with Stretching

Stretching keeps your muscles flexible and your joints comfortable. Try these simple moves:

Neck rolls – slowly look side to side, then up and down.
Shoulder circles – roll your shoulders forward and backward.
Ankle circles – while seated, lift one foot and rotate your ankle.

A few minutes in the morning or before bedtime can ease stiffness and help you feel more limber throughout the day. Tip: make stretching work for you! Listen to a podcast, watch TV, or put on some calming music to make it more enjoyable.

2. Take Short Walks

Walking is one of the safest and most effective ways to stay active.

If you’re indoors, walk around your home, in your yard or down the hallway to get the blood flowing.
Gradually add a few minutes each week.
If you use a mobility aid, bring it along — steady movement counts just the same.

Even short walks help improve circulation and strengthen your heart and lungs. If you’re able, get out in the fresh air and walk the neighborhood. Even 15 minutes can make a big difference.

3. Try Chair Yoga or Seated Exercises

Chair-based movement can build strength and flexibility while keeping you supported.

Look for “chair yoga for beginners” videos online or join a local senior or wellness center class.
Practice gentle arm lifts, leg extensions or seated twists.
Always move at your own pace — there’s no need to push or strain.

4. Make Movement a Habit

It’s easier to stay active when it becomes part of your routine. Try:

Setting a timer to stretch every hour.
Doing light activity while watching TV or listening to music.
Inviting a friend or family member to join you for accountability and fun.

Consistency, not intensity, is what matters most.

5. Check with Your Care Team

Before starting any new exercise, talk with your nephrologist, nurse or dietitian. They can help you find activities that fit your health needs and energy levels, especially if you’re on dialysis or managing other conditions.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Every bit of movement adds up. Staying active helps you feel stronger, more confident and more in control of your health. Whether it’s a short walk, a stretch between chores, or a few minutes of chair yoga, these small steps can make a meaningful difference in how you feel each day.

Puget Sound Kidney Centers is here to support you on every part of your kidney health journey — including finding safe, enjoyable ways to stay active.

425-259-5195

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