Patient Connections Support Program Peer support is important to NephCure — we know that patients and caregivers connecting with others and sharing lived experiences is an integral part of coping with Nephrotic Syndrome and FSGS. Our Patient Connections support program consists of an organized network of patients and caretakers whose lives have been affected by rare, protein-spilling kidney diseases. This program is designed to connect individuals via email or phone based upon any or all of the following: specific geographical area, diagnosis, symptoms, complications, or age of individuals. Our support volunteers are committed to offering support and sharing their experiences with others who are facing similar challenges associated with these rare conditions. REQUEST SUPPORT NOW Why offer a Patient Connections support program? Patients and caretakers can: Find comfort in knowing they are not alone Benefit from talking with someone who has already been in similar situations Learn more about their condition from someone who is not using medical jargon Receive more one-on-one support than they might receive from their clinician during a short office visit Receive tips on managing both their emotional and physical care Patient/Caretaker Support Volunteers: Provide a wealth of knowledge, awareness, and first-hand experiences Are located all across the world Have resources at their fingertips Wish to help others by sharing their experiences in living with and coping with Nephrotic Syndrome or FSGS How does someone receive support? Be a patient or caretaker of a patient with Nephrotic Syndrome or FSGS Be willing to answer a few questions or fill out a short survey so NephCure staff can match you with the most beneficial advocate(s) Be willing to provide NephCure with a valid email address or phone number and fill out a Patient Support Request Form Criteria for Patient Support Volunteers: Diagnosed with or caretaker of someone with FSGS or other disease causing Nephrotic Syndrome for at least 3 years Have access to email Be reliable and responsive Be able to communicate well with others and with NephCure Be empathetic, yet empowering Be culturally sensitive and understanding Be someone others can relate to, identify with, and learn from Have a general understanding of FSGS/NS Be willing to complete a short application and share your story Attend a web based training Interested in becoming a Patient Support Volunteer? Visit our Patient Support Volunteer page to learn more.