OUR MISSION
To provide help and information to those affected by kidney disease with a vision to be the leading resource of kidney related support in the greater Chattanooga area including: patient assistance, education, awareness, and prevention that improve the community's quality of life.
The Kidney Foundation of the Greater Chattanooga Area, Inc. was formed as a non-profit volunteer health organization dedicated to improving the lives of those diagnosed with kidney disease. We are an independent kidney foundation not affiliated with any national association, thus keeping all monies raised within the local community we serve.
The Kidney Foundation of the Greater Chattanooga Area receives no funding from the National Kidney Foundation, nor does it participate in any National Kidney Foundation programs, which means 100% of all funds raised stay within the greater Chattanooga area.
Kidney disease often leaves families financially devastated. In support of these families and those coping with kidney disease, The Kidney Foundation provides numerous programs and services to aid these families and patients. By operating as an independent Kidney Foundation, we are able to provide more financial assistance to our area patients.
The Kidney Foundation has assisted Chattanoogans since 1989 with the help of hundreds of volunteers, board members, staff, and of course, Kampbell the Kidney.
Dr. Jackson and Milli Yium
Our History
Jackson Yium, M.D., a Nephrologist and his wife, Milli, a registered nurse and clinical psychologist came to Chattanooga in 1973 to start a kidney treatment program at Erlanger and the UTC College of Medicine. The first dialysis clinic for outpatient treatment was opened in July 1973, and the Erlanger transplant center did its first transplant in 1989. The Cleveland and Chattanooga areas now have 18 outpatient clinics. Dialysis treatments are also done in the major hospitals in the area.
Milli has worked in dialysis and transplant providing both nursing and psychological support. Dr. Yium served as a Director of Nephrology and was the senior partner of Nephrology Associates. Both were founding members of the first Kidney Foundation and remain active volunteers for the organization.
The Kidney Foundation of Greater Chattanooga is sustained by caring volunteers and generous donors. Contributions are tax deductible and all proceeds stay 100% local to Chattanooga.
