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 aloneBenefit from talking with someone who has already been in similar situationsLearn more about their condition from someone who is not using medical jargonReceive more one-on-one support than they might receive from their clinician during a short office visitReceive tips on managing both their emotional and physical care Patient/Caretaker Support Volunteers: Provide a wealth of knowledge, awareness, and first-hand experiencesAre located all across the worldHave resources at their fingertipsWish 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 FSGSBe 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 yearsHave access to emailBe reliable and responsiveBe able to communicate well with others and with NephCureBe empathetic, yet empoweringBe culturally sensitive and understandingBe someone others can relate to, identify with, and learn fromHave a general understanding of FSGS/NSBe willing to complete a short application and share your storyAttend a web based training Interested in becoming a Patient Support Volunteer? Visit our Patient Support Volunteer page to learn more.