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Kidneys in the Classroom
The Kidneys in the Classroom project began as a joint effort between two nurses in the Acute Dialysis Unit at the VCU Medical Center. 
The incidence of kidney disease is on the rise due to the increase in hypertension and diabetes, and many patients came to them with very little knowledge about their disease process and how it could lead to kidney failure.
The nurses recognized a need for distributing information at an early age and, in response, created a program to present to high school students in the Richmond area. They found a willing partner in the National Kidney Foundation. The program is filled with information, games and prizes, and interaction with health care professionals and it covers such topics as diabetes, hypertension, kidney function, nutrition, obesity and dialysis. The goal is to educate the next generation and prevent kidney disease or prolong the time until dialysis starts. The program has met with enthusiasm from school nurses and students.
Get involved
To support this program or get involved as a volunteer, contact Mary Kushner at mkushner@mcvh-vcu.edu.