Choosing to Change Kidney Treatment Options During COVID-19: A Panel Discussion

Choosing to Change Kidney Treatment Options During COVID-19: A Panel Discussion

Moderator and Panelists:

Eva Tak - Moderator - Transplant Recipient and Patient Subject Matter Expert, NPFE-LAN HSAG ESRD Network 17
Althea Lee - Caregiver for her husband who uses in-center hemodialysis
Timothy Ellis - Home hemodialysis user, volunteer with Home Dialyzors United
Darryl Reece - Transplant recipient, Patient Subject Matter Expert with ESRD Network 8

Biography:

Eva Tak, was diagnosed with systemic lupus (SLE) IN 1984. She lives in Northern California and has used peritoneal dialysis, in-center hemodialysis, home nocturnal hemodialysis and solo home hemodialysis. Eva recently received a kidney transplant. Eva volunteers with the ESRD Network 17 and National Patient and Family Engagement Learning and Action Network (NPFE-LAN) as a Subject Matter Expert. For 21 years Eva served as a law enforcement officer, retiring as a lieutenant. After leaving policing, Eva completed a master’s degree in counseling psychology. She now has a private practice as a marriage and family therapist, specializing in working with emergency responders and trauma. She has recently decided to return to school to earn a doctorate in sociology.

Presentation Objectives:

The presenters will:

• Discuss individual perspectives for deciding to change kidney treatment options during a pandemic.
• Identify resources and support services available for kidney patients.
• Review patient suggested tips for adjusting with change during a pandemic.