Celebrating Patient Advocates: Ardelyx Honors Heroes in Healthcare
Recognizing Champions in Kidney Health Advocacy
Ardelyx, Inc. (Nasdaq: ARDX), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering, developing, and commercializing innovative medicines to meet pressing healthcare needs, recently announced its inaugural recipients of the Derek Forfang Patient Advocate Award. This prestigious award was unveiled on World Kidney Day and aims to acknowledge exceptional individuals who passionately advocate for those impacted by chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Honoring the Legacy of Derek Forfang
The award is named after Derek Forfang, a brave individual who fought against chronic kidney disease until his passing in 2023. His unyielding dedication to improving the lives of patients, caregivers, and families in the CKD community serves as an inspiration. The recipients of this award were chosen by Ardelyx’s Derek Forfang Patient Advisory Council from a pool of candidates nominated by the community, highlighting their significant contributions and advocacy.
Meet the Award Recipients
Mary Baliker, Erich Ditschman, Nichole Jefferson, Curtis Warfield, and David M. White make up the first-ever recipients of this award. Each honoree exemplifies the spirit of advocacy and compassion that Derek embodied.
The Journey of Mary Baliker
Mary Baliker has dedicated over 40 years as a healthcare advocate, bringing attention to kidney disease through numerous initiatives. Diagnosed at a young age with a rare kidney condition, Mary has lived a life marked by multiple treatments, including dialysis and transplants. Her experiences fueled her desire to enhance the healthcare landscape for kidney patients. Mary has authored a book titled Maria Never Gives Up, designed to support families navigating chronic illnesses, and it is now available in dialysis centers across the nation.
Erich Ditschman's Advocacy Work
Erich Ditschman's legacy as a kidney patient advocate reflects his dedication to empowering others. Before his passing at the start of 2025, Erich tirelessly worked to facilitate mentorship, policy reforms, and education on home dialysis options. His involvement included co-founding an important home hemodialysis database, which played a critical role in advancing the field of kidney care.
Nichole Jefferson's Empowering Voice
Nichole Jefferson's journey as a kidney transplant recipient has fueled her commitment to advocating for underserved populations. She believes that while transplantation can provide a new lease on life, it is essential to push for systemic improvement in kidney healthcare. Through her work, Nichole champions early detection initiatives and patient education, ensuring that every voice is heard.
Curtis Warfield's Commitment to Change
Curtis Warfield, who received a transplant following his diagnosis with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), has consistently pursued advocacy for equitable healthcare policies. Since 2016, he has been at the forefront of discussions impacting kidney patients, advocating on Capitol Hill and striving for policy changes that benefit the community. His contributions have earned him recognition through various awards.
David M. White's Systemic Reforms
David M. White is noted for his active involvement in patient engagement, working diligently to ensure patient perspectives are integral to healthcare decisions. His approach focuses not just on individual patient success but also on fostering an equitable environment for all kidney disease patients. By collaborating with various organizations, David seeks to create policies that meaningfully improve outcomes for the CKD community.
About Ardelyx, Inc.
Founded with a vision to transform the treatment landscape for unmet medical needs, Ardelyx is committed to innovation. They have two commercial products, IBSRELA (tenapanor) and XPHOZAH (tenapanor), approved in the United States, guided by a mission to advance kidney health. Their expertise also extends globally, collaborating with partners to improve healthcare access and treatment options worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Derek Forfang Patient Advocate Award?
The Derek Forfang Patient Advocate Award is given to individuals who demonstrate outstanding advocacy for patients with chronic kidney disease.
Who were the first recipients of this award?
The first recipients include Mary Baliker, Erich Ditschman, Nichole Jefferson, Curtis Warfield, and David M. White.
Why was this award established?
This award honors Derek Forfang, a dedicated advocate for kidney health who passed away due to chronic kidney disease.
What does Ardelyx focus on?
Ardelyx focuses on discovering and commercializing innovative medicines to address significant unmet medical needs, particularly in kidney disease.
How has each recipient contributed to kidney health?
Each recipient has made meaningful contributions through advocacy, education, and policy change to improve the lives of kidney patients.
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