The Northwest Regional Renal Program is committed to helping patients in all aspects of their care, not just their medical symptoms. There are a number of supports built into the program to help you throughout your treatment. All staff in the renal program are specially trained in renal care. They are available to help answer any questions you may have about renal disease in their specific area of care. In the case of social workers and the Indigenous Navigator, they can help you connect with other services to help you deal with how your kidney disease affects other areas of your life. Staff will provide you with information about your kidney disease throughout your treatment. There are also a number of brochures and other reference materials available to all who need it.
Kidney Connect Support Group
This group is made up entirely of renal patients who are going through similar experiences you are, and understand the physical, emotional, and mental issues that go along with kidney disease. Patients can join one of two groups that meet once per month, coinciding with treatment times for the convenience of patients. Nothing is expected – you can drop in on as many or as few meetings as you like, ask questions, relate your story, or simply just listen to others talk. For most, the Kidney Connect Support Group is a way to feel connected to other people who understand what you are going through, and can help provide you with support during your own treatment. Family members are also encouraged and welcomed at our gatherings, particularly in the early days of diagnosis, to gain knowledge and a better understanding about the disease and how it affects the family. Online Help – There is a wealth of information online to help you find answers to your questions about kidney disease and treatment. The two best sources are the
Ontario Renal Network and the
Kidney Foundation of Canada.
