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KidneyCouch is an online library for kidney cancer patients and/or patients with chronic kidney disease. KidneyCouch provides links to credible sources, stories, and educational material for patients and family members. KidneyCouch © Copyright STRENGTH in UNITY At KidneyCouch, we are dedicated to providing a supportive and informative space for kidney cancer patients and those who are also dealing with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Access valuable resources, stories, and articles that can make a difference in your journey. Quick Links KidneyCouch Podcast About the Couch Resource Library The Patient Journey Testing & Diagnosis Treatment Options Surveillance Emotional Support Journey Diagram PURPOSE KidneyCouch is committed to offering support and information to individuals battling kidney cancer and/or chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our goal is to create a community that fosters connection, understanding, and empowerment for patients and their loved ones. Through resource links, stories, and articles, we aim to provide helpful insights and education so that you are better informed in discussing your kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease with your physician. Always consult your physician before making any medical decisions. Friends Around the Couch KidneyCouch gives recognition and appreciation to the following organizations and their efforts to address kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease. Urology Care Foundation Kidney Cancer Association National Kidney Foundation American Cancer Society Imerman Angels The Patient Story Smart Patients Cancer Interviews INSPIRING STORIES Read Now Purpose of This Site This website was developed and is maintained for the sole purpose of providing a "Library" of resources for patients dealing with kidney cancer, chronic kidney disease, or kidney stones. There is no fundraising, sponsors, or business activities of any kind. The information included on this website is for informational purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice.

Kidney biopsy Kidney Biopsy Used with Permission of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, all rights reserved. A kidney biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that involves the removal and study of small samples of your kidney under microscope by a pathologist. It’s a way for your medical team to collect information to help diagnose or monitor the health of your kidney, such as determining the grade of a kidney tumor or the functioning of the kidney for a patient with chronic kidney disease. Overview of Kidney Biopsies Kidney Biopsy Explained Kidney Biopsy Indications - youtube Kidney Biopsy Basics 4 Things to Know What to Know - Kidney Biopsy Kidney Biopsy Details Overview - What to Expect During a Kidney Biopsy Mayo Clinic Cleveland Clinic Johns Hopkins Medicine NIH - NIDDK American Kidney Fund Indication for Kidney Biopsy YouTube - Dr. A. Kishore Kumar Specifics National Kidney Foundation 4 Things to Know About Kidney Biopsies - MD Anderson Cancer Center Safety and Diagnostic Efficacy MUSIC What is MUSIC Kidney? Renal Mass Biopsy Roadmap for Patients with T1 Renal Masses Risk / Benefit Don't roll the dice. Educate yourself regarding the risks / benefits of having a kidney biopsy prior to a nephrectomy for masses between 3 cm to 7 cm. Every patient is unique. The more informed you are, the better your conversation with your physician regarding treatment options.

Kidney Cancer - Honors The Laurel Wreath represents victory over cancer and honors those who have been impacted by kidney cancer. Individuals listed on this page are recognized and lifted up as a member of the kidney cancer community. Mike Peterson An avid naturalist and outdoorsman, Mike quietly lived life. Soon after retiring, things he enjoyed most created fatigue. A stubborn man, his son finally convinced him to go to the Emergency Department to be evaluated. The doctors discovered a mass in his kidney, liver, and lungs. Stage 4 renal cell carcinoma. Mike passed away quietly on July 1, 2025. The same way he lived. God Bless his memory. Sid Sadler A husband and father, Sid Sadler was diagnosed with kidney cancer in December 2023. Sid was just 32 years of age at the time of the unexpected news that a 10.5 cm mass was growing in his kidney. Since a complete nephrectomy of his left kidney, Sid has been running full speed ahead. Sid set out to learn everything he could about renal cell carcinoma and how he can be a supportive voice for others walking a similar journey. Read More Read More 1 Page 1 Share Your Story Share your kidney cancer story with us. Submit your name, a brief story, and a photo. Name Email Kidney Cancer Story Upload Photo (Max 15MB) Submit

My Story I published a book about my experience with kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease. Check it out on Amazon KidneyCouch Overview - pdf Welcome to this site. In January 2023 I was diagnosed with kidney cancer (ccRCC, Stage 3, Grade 3). My wife and three boys have been great support and encouragement as I have ridden this roller coaster ride with white knuckles on a few unexpected turns. I found that reaching out to online kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease (CKD) support groups helped me through the first two years of this journey. After sharing my experience and listening to those of others on a few social media sites, it inspired me to create a community that places an emphasis on trusted resources to complement patient experiences. I am a firm believer that your physician should not care more about your medical needs than you do. As a person who is logical to a fault, I need data from reputable medical centers and trusted resources to provide education and understanding of kidney disease. One of the primary goals of this site is a search for the best resources to help patients discuss their healthcare options with their physicians and make informed decisions. It is a daunting task. Having cancer is a new playing field. One that no one trains for. And the goal posts move often, many times farther away. Very few locations around the world offer in-person cancer support groups. Having a coalition of resources at your fingertips - the keyboard and phone - is the next best way to provide that support. Moving the goal posts closer together. A retired administrator from Mayo Clinic Rochester, I have experience providing administrative support and direction for the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Anatomic Pathology, Preventive Medicine, and the Emergency Department to name just a few. I never expected to be on this side of the discussion about cancer, chronic kidney disease, kidney stones. Most importantly, I am blessed with a beautiful family. I hope you find the value you are looking for in this community. Jeff Kallis Days Since My Radical Nephrectomy Introduction to Around the Couch Podcast Purpose of This Site This website was developed and is maintained for the sole purpose of providing a "Library" of resources for patients dealing with kidney cancer, chronic kidney disease, or kidney stones. There is no fundraising, sponsors, or business activities of any kind. The information included on this website is for informational purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice.

PRESS RELEASES 1 / Partnership Announcement with Smart Patients February 13, 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: KidneyCouch Supports Patients and their Families with an Online Kidney Cancer Community KidneyCouch partners with Smart Patients to create a new online kidney cancer community that will make it easier for patients and families to support and learn from one another. ROCHESTER, MN, February 13, 2026: Today, KidneyCouch is proud to announce a new partnership with Smart Patients, an online peer-to-peer support forum for patients and their families, which allows KidneyCouch to extend its ability to help those impacted by kidney cancer by adding virtual social and emotional support to their outreach programs. Patients and families affected by kidney cancer can join the Smart Patients kidney cancer or chronic kidney disease community for free to share, interact, and learn from each other in a safe, supportive environment. Patients are invited to join the kidney cancer community through the following link: KidneyCouch Smart Patients Community. Individuals can join the community by securely sharing their email addresses and setting up a free personal account. Once the account is confirmed participants will have access to information, and resources, and be able to participate in community conversations on topics of interest. About KidneyCouch KidneyCouch is dedicated to providing a supportive and informative space for kidney cancer patients and those who are also dealing with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It provides resources, stories, and articles to its community members. About Smart Patients: Smart Patients is an online community where patients and caregivers affected by serious illnesses learn from each other. Members share personal experiences, ask and answer questions, and gain knowledge in an ad-free, private space that helps them make better-informed decisions about their care. The platform hosts more than 100 disease-specific communities and is free to join. Learn more at KidneyCouch Smart Patients Community. Contact: Kristi Lynden kristi@smartpatients.com Smart Patient Social Media Handles: Facebook (@smartpatientscommunity) Instagram and Threads (@smart_patients_community) LinkedIn (@Smart Patients) Bluesky (@smartpatients.bsky.social) 2 / Affiliate Partnership Announcement with the Kidney Cancer Association October 20, 2025 KCA Welcomes New Affiliate Partner KidneyCouch Kidney Cancer Association The Kidney Cancer Association (KCA) welcomes KidneyCouch as a new Affiliate Partner. KidneyCouch is committed to offering support and information to individuals battling kidney cancer and/or chronic kidney disease (CKD) with a goal to create a community that fosters connection, understanding, and empowerment for patients and their loved ones. Founder Jeff Kallis, 64, was diagnosed with stage 3 clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in 2023 and has since written a book about his journey, has been featured in multiple news stories, and created KidneyCouch to increase awareness, education, and support for patients and family members dealing with kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease. His personal mission has always been to connect with and support fellow patients so that no one has to walk this journey alone. For more information about Kallis’s full story, visit KidneyCouch – About. Jeff Kallis’ kidney cancer prompted questions. He wanted to help others find answers. “KidneyCouch is proud to create this affiliation with the Kidney Cancer Association,” Kallis said. “There is strength in unity and there is no better partner than the KCA in creating awareness, education, and finding a cure for kidney cancer.” “It’s gratifying to see how Jeff has used his personal experience to create a welcoming space for meaningful connection,” said Gretchen E. Vaughan, KCA’s President and CEO. “With our shared values, we are looking forward to working together!” The KCA’s Affiliate Partners help expand the support available for people impacted by kidney cancer and allows for strategic collaborations that will advance research, advocacy, and education. KidneyCouch joins seven existing KCA Affiliate Partner organizations: the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation, the Chromophobe and Oncocytic Tumor Alliance, HLRCC Foundation, Elevate Childhood Research and Advocacy, Joey’s Wings Foundation, the Judy Nicholson Kidney Cancer Foundation, and the Wilms Cancer Foundation. Media Contact: Radha Chitale Senior Director of Communications 847.332.1051 ext. 113 | rchitale@www.kidneycancer.org 3 / Partnership Announcement with Imerman Angels August 15, 2025 KidneyCouch is pleased to announce that it has formed a partnership with Imerman Angels. Imerman Angels matches a cancer patient with another cancer patient with similar stories and experiences. In addition to the support I received from my wife Cindy, our sons, family, and friends, it would have been very helpful to have a personal connection with someone who had the same diagnosis and story as mine. There are people out there who want to be available to help others navigate their cancer journey – relating to you on a level that others cannot. Now, I want to “give back” to other people diagnosed with kidney cancer and need some emotional / social support as they ride this roller coaster. In July, I became a certified Imerman Angels Mentor Angel to do just that. No one needs to navigate the unknowns alone. Imerman Angles intentionally matches cancer patients according to age, gender, type of cancer, and experience; so, you know you are talking to someone who truly understands what you’re going through, in a supportive and caring connection. Imerman Angels provides this connection free of charge to anyone seeking support, connection and community. If you know of anyone who is dealing with cancer and would like or benefit from a one-on-one connection, please reach out to Imerman Angels at https://imermanangels.org/. If you are cancer survivor and would like to become a Mentor Angel, reach out to Imerman Angels at https://imermanangels.org/give-support/. To learn more about Imerman Angels, visit these links: KidneyCouch / Imerman Angels Partnership: https://www.kidneycouch.com/imermanangels Imerman Angels Resource / Partner Page: https://imermanangels.org/resources/ Imerman Angels – Home Page https://imermanangels.org/

Partners and Affiliates of the KidneyCouch.com. Affiliates and Partners KidneyCouch is proud to partner with organizations who's mission is to bring awareness, education, support, and resources to patients, friends and family members, and caregivers that experience kidney cancer journeys. Everyone has a story to tell. A unique, personal experience that we want to bring an additional voice to. The affiliations that we have forged share the mission of KidneyCouch to bring support and healing - medically and emotionally - through education and awareness for patients experiencing kidney cancer personally or within their circle of friends and family. We are pleased that the following organizations have joined us around the Couch to advance this mission. Kidney Cancer Association The KCA promotes scientific advances through two annual research symposiums and a robust grant program, participates in legislative advocacy, and seeks to be a source of education and resources for patients, caregivers, and anyone impacted by kidney cancer. KCA's vision is to be the universal leader in finding the cure for kidney cancer. Their mission is to be a global community dedicated to serving and empowering patients and caregivers, and leading change through advocacy, research, and education. Imerman Angels Imerman Angel's mission is to provide comfort and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers through a personalized, one-on-one connection with someone who has been there. Imerman Angels envisions a world where cancer is not a solitary experience. Smart Patients Smart Patients is an online community for patients and families affected by a variety of illnesses. Here you can learn at your own level about scientific developments related to your condition, share your questions and concerns with other members, and use what you learn in the context of your own life. We believe patients are the most underutilized resource in healthcare. We’ve watched patients become experts in their conditions — and we see that their knowledge improves the care they receive. With the right tools, you and other patients can do the same. Future Partners KidneyCouch is reaching out to other like-minded organizations to form affiliations with. Reach out if interested!

KidneyCouch Podcast - Around the Couch Around the Couch Podcast

KidneyCouch is proud to be an Affiliate Partner with the Kidney Cancer Association. About Kidney Cancer Association The Kidney Cancer Association (KCA) is an international non-profit organization that promotes scientific advances through two annual research symposiums and a robust grant program, participates in legislative advocacy, and seeks to be a source of education and resources for patients, caregivers, and anyone impacted by kidney cancer. The vision of the KCA is to be the universal leader in finding the cure for kidney cancer. KCA's mission is to be a global community dedicated to serving and empowering patients and caregivers, and leading change through advocacy, research, and education. Knowledge is Power Learning about kidney cancer can feel overwhelming, but gaining knowledge is the first step to feeling more in control. The key is to educate yourself, ensure you understand your diagnosis, and explore your options. Go To Knowledge is Power Patient Stories Check out patient stories from individuals and loved ones who are dealing with kidney cancer. For individuals dealing with kidney cancer, hearing stories from those who have walked a similar path offers a powerful way to connect and feel less alone. Go To Patient Stories Strength in Unity KCA Affiliates / Partners KidneyCouch Podcast Episode Regarding the Affiliation Kidney Cancer Association Contact Information Website kidneycancer.org Email Patient Navigator Programs Donors

Chronic Kidney Disease The Basics Overview Kidney Education Kidney Biopsy - youtube CKD - CDC CKD - NIH CKD - NLM Kidney Disease - NIH Specifics Stages of CKD eGFR Explained Graphics Cystatin C Stage 3a CKD All About CKD What You Need to Know Kidney Tests Explained Contrast Dye & Your Kidneys Publications Cystatin C vs. eGFR Eating Right for CKD Kidney Function Decline in cT1a Patients eGFR After Nephrectomy General Topics Measuring Your Kidney Health GFR eGFR Calculator Pathology Tests for CKD Symptoms & Causes Life With A Single Kidney Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) This calculator predicts your risk of kidney failure in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). There is a calculator for Kidney Cancer (after a partial or complete nephrectomy) as well as the KFRE calculator f or all other patients with CKD.

Four common journeys for patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Top of Page Stage 4 Recurrent Stage 1 & 2 Stage 3 Common Journeys for Patients with ccRCC According to the Cancer Research Institute, 90 percent of kidney cancers are renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Of these, 70 percent have the subtype of "clear cell" renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Staging is a way to describe the cancer in terms of location and how far it has spread. It helps physicians determine the best course of treatment for the patient. The typical journey for each of the 4 stages ( I - IV ) is outlined below. 1 2 3 4 Information from the American Cancer Society, 2024, edited. Stage I and II cancers are confined to the kidney. Stage I is the least aggressive stage and has the highest five-year survival rate. Stage II is more serious than Stage I but still confined to the kidney. Active surveillance Some small (Stage I) cancers might not need to be treated right away. Small tumors often grow slowly, and some might never cause serious problems. Active surveillance might be an option for some people with small kidney tumors. The tumor is monitored closely with regular imaging tests (CT scans or MRI) and other tests. Further treatment may be necessary if the tumor grows or starts to show other concerning signs. Surgery If treatment is needed, the kidney cancer is usually removed with surgery when possible. Partial nephrectomy (removing the part of the kidney containing the cancer) is often the treatment of choice for smaller tumors. This is especially true for people who have reduced kidney function (or who might have it in the future). Radical nephrectomy (removing the entire kidney) is often favored if the tumor is larger, if it’s in the central part of the kidney, or if there’s more than one tumor in the kidney. Some lymph nodes near the kidney are often removed as well. More lymph nodes might need to be removed if any of them look enlarged on imaging tests, or if there’s a higher risk that the cancer might spread to the nodes. Most often, no further treatment is needed after surgery. If, after surgery, the cancer cells are found to have troubling features when evaluated in the lab (such as being very high grade), one option might be to get adjuvant (additional) treatment to help lower the risk of the cancer coming back. Other treatment options For people who aren’t healthy enough to have surgery or who don't want surgery, other local treatments such as cryotherapy or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can sometimes be used to destroy (ablate) the kidney tumor. Radiation therapy (particularly stereotactic body radiation therapy, or SBRT) may be another option. Although these types of treatments can have outcomes similar to surgery as far as the chances of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body, some studies show the cancer might be more likely to come back in the same area. 1 and 2 Stage 1 & 2 Stage 3 3 Stage III kidney cancers have grown into nearby large veins or tissues around the kidney, and/or they have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Surgery Surgery is typically the treatment for Stage III. Most often, this is a radical nephrectomy, in which the entire kidney is removed. A partial nephrectomy (removing the part of the kidney containing the tumor) might also be an option if it’s possible, especially in people with reduced kidney function or who have tumors in both kidneys. Some lymph nodes near the kidney are often removed as well. More lymph nodes might need to be removed if any of them look enlarged on imaging tests , or if there’s a higher risk that the cancer might spread to the nodes. If the cancer has grown into the inferior vena cava (the large vein that brings blood from the lower part of the body back up to the heart), your surgeon may need to cut open this vein to remove all of the cancer. For clear cell RCC, an option after surgery is to get adjuvant (additional) treatment to help lower the risk of the cancer coming back (recurrence). Other treatment options For people who can’t have surgery for some reason, radiation therapy or ano ther type of local treatment might be options. Some stage III cancers can’t be removed completely by surgery or destroyed with other treatments. These cancers might get the same treatment as stage IV cancers, with t argeted therapy drugs, immunotherapy , or a combination of these. Stage 4 4 With Stage IV kidney cancer, the main tumor has grown outside the kidney, or the cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as distant lymph nodes or other organs. Treatment of Stage IV kidney cancer depends mainly on how extensive the cancer is and on a person’s general health. For most people with Stage IV kidney cancer, medicines such as immunotherapy and targeted drugs are the main treatments (see below). But in some cases, surgery may still be a part of treatment. While it’s not common, sometimes the main tumor appears to be removable and there is only limited spread to another area (such as to one or a few spots in the lungs). In these situations, surgery to remove both the kidney and the metastasis (the outside area of cancer spread) may be an option if a person is in good enough health. Other options to treat the metastatic tumors might include ablative treatments or radiation therapy . If all of the tumors are removed (or destroyed), additional (adjuvant) treatment with the immunotherapy drug(s) might be considered. If the kidney tumor can be removed but the cancer has spread extensively elsewhere, treatment options might include: Removing kidney with the tumor first. This type of surgery (known as a cytoreductive nephrectomy) isn’t recommended for most people, but it might be an option for otherwise healthy people in a low-risk group . Surgery is then followed by drug treatments for most people. Giving drug treatments (immunotherapy and/or targeted drugs) first. This is likely to be preferred for most people, even if it looks like the cancer in the kidney can be removed. For some people, if the cancer shrinks a lot with this treatment, surgery, ablative treatments , or radiation therapy might be options to try to remove or destroy any remaining tumors. If the kidney tumor isn’t removable If the kidney tumor can’t be removed, the first treatment is usually with medicines such as immunotherapy and/or targeted therapy drugs. Often, one of each type of drug is part of the first treatment. Which ones are used depends to some extent on if the cancer is a clear cell RCC or a non-clear cell RCC. If one treatment doesn’t work (or stops working), another one can often be tried. For some less common types of non-clear cell RCC, such as collecting duct RCC or renal medullary carcinoma, chemotherapy is often the first treatment. While it’s not common, sometimes the first treatment might shrink the tumors enough so that surgery , ablative treatments , or radiation , might be options to try to get rid of any remaining tumors. In other situations, surgery or other treatments might be used to help relieve symptoms from the cancer, such as pain or bleeding, rather than trying to get rid of the cancer completely. This type of treatment is called palliative therapy. If you have advanced kidney cancer (stage IV) and your doctor suggests surgery, ablation, or radiation, be sure you understand what the goal of the treatment is. No matter what type of treatment you’re getting, having your pain controlled can help you maintain your quality of life. Treating the cancer itself can often help with this. Medicines to relieve pain can also be helpful, and they will not interfere with your other treatments. Controlling any pain you have can often help you be more active and continue your daily activities. Because advanced kidney cancer is very hard to cure, clinical trials of new combinations of targeted therapy drugs, immunotherapy, or other new treatments are also options. Treating Recurrent Kidney Cancer Cancer is called recurrent when it comes back after treatment. Recurrence can be local (near the area of the original tumor), or it may be in distant parts of the body. Treatment of kidney cancer that comes back (recurs) after initial treatment depends on where it recurs and what treatments have been used, as well as a person’s health and wishes for further treatment. Local recurrence For cancers that recur near the area of the original kidney tumor after surgery, further surgery, other localized treatments, or radiation might be options. Even if not all of the cancer can be removed or destroyed, these treatments might still help relieve symptoms in some people. Other treatment options will most likely include immunotherapy and/or targeted therapy drugs. Clinical trials of new treatments are an option as well. Distant recurrence Kidney cancer that recurs in distant parts of the body is treated like stage IV cancer (see above). Your options will depend on where the cancer is; if it’s thought to be removable or not; which, if any, drugs you received as part of your first treatment (and how long ago you got them); and on your overall health and preferences. For cancers that continue to grow or spread during treatment with immunotherapy or targeted therapy drugs, different drugs still might be helpful. Recurrent cancers can sometimes be hard to treat, so you might also want to ask your doctor about clinical trials. For some people with recurrent kidney cancer, palliative treatments may be the best option. These treatments are intended to help control the cancer and relieve any symptoms it is causing. Options might include radiation therapy, ablative treatments, or even some type of surgery, if a person is healthy enough. Controlling symptoms such as pain is also an important part of treatment at any stage of the disease. Recurrent

KidneyCouch is proud to partner with Smart Patients, an online community for patients and families affected by kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease. The Smart Patients kidney community's online support complements KidneyCouch's belief that accessing valuable resources, stories, and articles can make a difference in your journey. You are not alone. Sunlight through the trees. You are surrounded by others who would love to connect and support you. Go To KidneyCouch Community on Smart Patients About Smart Patients Smart Patients is an online community for patients and families affected by a variety of illnesses. Connect with others and learn at your own pace about scientific developments related to your condition, share your questions and concerns with other members, and use what you learn in the context of your own life. With the right tools, you and other patients can do the same. Communities At Smart Patients, they have over 100 communities covering oncology, autoimmune diseases (like Sjögren’s and lupus), neurodegenerative diseases and their symptoms (like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and dementia). They also have several communities where caregivers share tips for coping while caring for a child, parent or spouse. Smart Patients Community Home Kidney Cancer Conversations At Smart Patients, they believe patients are the most underutilized resource in healthcare. They’ve watched patients become experts in their conditions — and see that their knowledge improves the care they receive. Go To Conversations Strength in Unity Smart Patients Partners Smart Patients - Contact Information Website https://www.smartpatients.com/site Email Info@smartpatients.com

Read inspirational stories about patients dealing with kidney cancer, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease. Inspirational Stories Boy With Umbrella It's No Problem for God Darla Noble, Daily Bible Inspirations, 2023 "There was once a small village, which was suffering from a severe drought. The crops were dying, and the villagers and their animals had very little water to drink. One day, to try to find a solution to the drought, the village priest called the villagers to gather at the village square to pray together for rain. He told them to bring along a token of their faith, so the prayer would be done in sincere faith. And so, the villagers gathered at the square bringing with them tokens of their faith. Some brought the Holy Bible while others carried small crosses. They all prayed aloud with great faith and hope. Sure enough, within a few minutes it began to rain. The whole crowd was overjoyed and danced happily. The priest noticed that among the joyous crowd was a nine-year-old boy, clutching an umbrella as a token of faith. The priest admired this little boy, who had brought an umbrella in total faith that God would surely hear his prayers and send rain." Comment by Jeff Kallis: That’s faith. Seeing the world through a child’s eyes. They hear and see the obvious that adults often take for granted or walk past and don’t even notice. I must admit, I haven’t been carrying an umbrella as I deal with cancer. I’ve wondered why God let this happen to me, why me? Kidney Cancer Association Honor Wall Check out these stories from the Kidney Cancer Association (KCA). Add yourself to the Honor Wall. Kidney Cancer Association Honor Wall One of my favorite quotes, by Erv Miller, Rochester, MN A shout out to urology surgeons everywhere. click on image to enlarge Kidney Cancer Stories Enjoy these patient stories at The Patient Story

The top kidney cancer hospitals / medical centers in the United States. Find a kidney cancer physician near you. U.S. News creates a list of the top hospitals in the United States, by specialty, on an annual basis. The report is usually published in the month of July each year. Here is the list of hospitals / medical centers for Kidney Cancer and Kidney Disease. U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals Overall Best for Kidney Cancer Best for Kidney Disease (Failure) Last 5-Year Rankings 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Find a Physician These are several links about providers or where to seek care for kidney cancer diagnosis and treatment. The sources are provided for informational and educational purposes only and not a recommendation from KidneyCouch. Finding Cancer Care - National Cancer Institute Treatment Center Finder - Kidney Cancer Association Best Hospitals for Cancer - U.S. News & World Report

Educational links and resources for patients and family members who are dealing with kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease. KidneyCouch Interactive © Copyright Are you or a loved one currently dealing with kidney disease and in need of support and connection to interactive tools and engagement? Forums for discussion can facilitate deeper engagement among individuals dealing with kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease, fostering a sense of belonging within the community of patients dealing with similar issues. Kidney Cancer Support Groups KidneyCouch Community - Smart Patients Kidney Cancer Information and Support Community - Kidney Cancer Association Patient Perspectives - Virtual Support Group - Kidney Cancer Association Kidney Cancer Unfiltered - Podcasts - Kidney Cancer Association Kidney Cancer Support Group - Mayo Clinic Stages1-2-3 Kidney Cancer Support Community - KCCure Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Support Group Go To KidneyCouch Community One-on-One Connection One-on-One Cancer Support Community Resource Partners Imerman Angels provides free, personalized one-on-one cancer support for cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers. The purpose of the matches made by Imerman Angels is to provide one-on-one cancer support from someone who has been there. To reach out to Imerman Angels to find a mentor for one-on-one support, go to https://imermanangels.org/find-mentor-angel/ Imerman Angels – Certification 🎉 Proud to be part of Imerman Angels! 🌟 I completed the Mentor training at Imerman Angels in June 2025 and am officially a Mentor Angel. Imerman Angels provides free one-on-one support to cancer fighters, survivors, previvors, and caregivers to ensure no one faces cancer alone. Sign up to be a Mentor or Mentee and learn more at @imermanangels or visit their website imermanangels.org Patient-Focused Tools Recent Trends in SEER Age-Adjusted Incidence Rates, 2000-2022 By Sex, Delay-adjusted SEER Incidence Rate, All Races / Ethnicities, All Ages, All Stages Quick Quiz: Kidney Cancer Take the Quiz Cancer Survivors Network Kidney Cancer cBioPortal - Cancer Genomic Data Kidney Cancer

Publications / Statistics Publications Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma National Library of Medicine Diagnostic Imaging for Solid Renal Tumors: A Pictorial Review National Library of Medicine Immunotherapy for Kidney Cancer Cancer Research Institute Kidney Cancer Research Results and Study Updates National Cancer Institute, NIH Kidney Cancer Journal - Kidney Cancer Association Kidney Cancer - Sage Journals National Comprehensive Kidney Cancer Guidelines for Patients National Comprehensive Cancer Network (pdf) Kidney Cancer: Current Progress in Treatment National Library of Medicine Renal Mass and Localized Cancer American Urological Association Kidney Cancer Research - Kidney Cancer Association Statistics Kidney Cancer Statistics 2025 American Cancer Society Cancer Stats at a Glance Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Kidney Cancer Stat Facts - Kidney Cancer National Cancer Institute U.S. - Cancer Profiles by State National Cancer Institute Global Epidemiology of Kidney Cancer Oxford Academic Fast Facts Kidney Cancer Association

Tips for dealing with the emotional side of kidney cancer, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease. Emotional Rollercoaster Ride Dealing with kidney cancer and chronic kidney disease can be like a roller coaster ride that you want to get off. Here are some tips on how to deal with the emotional side of kidney disease. Emotions and Cancer Feelings Scanxiety Kidney Cancer Stories Navigating Cancer Tips Coping and Support Cancer Patient Advocate Examining the Relationship Patient Navigator - KCA Coping Effectively - CKD Psychosocial Effects Managing Emotions - Part I Managing Emotions - Part II