First NBA player to return after kidney transplant partners with Fresenius Kidney Care
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
NBA All-Star Sean Elliott is partnering with Fresenius Kidney Care in March to raise awareness of kidney disease and highlight the importance of early detection, according to a press release.
“Kidney disease has affected my life, my family, and my career,” Elliott said in the release. “I had a responsibility to my team to look after my health. Getting tested and monitoring my condition made it possible for me to find the right treatment, and even get back to the game I love.”
Elliott was diagnosed with focal segmental glomerular sclerosis after his 1992 to 1993 NBA season. Six years later, he underwent a kidney transplant. He recovered and returned to the NBA as its first player to come back after a transplant.
Elliott is publicly discussing kidney health during National Kidney Month and speaking about the significance of early detection of kidney disease.
According to the release, one in seven people are estimated to have kidney disease, but chronic kidney disease is a “silent disease” in its early stages, so many people are unaware they have it.
“Stories like Sean’s are the reason we strive to provide holistic kidney care to our patients,” Mike Asselta, president of Fresenius Kidney Care, said in the release. “Our team of nurses, technicians, social workers, dietitians and other care providers all work together to provide the support people need to thrive while living with kidney disease. We are also proud to help increase awareness about the importance of early detection, which can help slow the progression of disease.”