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Recommended Resources for Patients & Families

This page lists resources to support people with chronic kidney disease, family members and caregivers. Each person’s experience is different, so we offer these resource links to help you become more involved in your care decisions.

Living with Chronic Kidney Disease

Learn about chronic kidney disease, the types of care you may receive, dialysis options, what to eat and how to manage pregnancy.

First Nations, Inuit & Métis Care

This series of fact sheets includes a list of kidney care terms, and information about chronic and end-stage kidney disease, and nutrition.

Learning about your treatment options can help you make the best decisions for your care. These resources supplement the information you may receive from your hospital or clinic. You can use them to help you talk with your healthcare team.

Kidney Care Locations

Find out where to get kidney care services near you.

Dialysis

Learn about types of dialysis and body access for dialysis, and how to do dialysis at home. 

Transplantation

Learn about living donor kidney transplants, the transplantation process and the healthcare providers involved.

Comprehensive Conservative Renal Care

This active treatment plan is for people with end-stage kidney disease who do not want to include dialysis as part of their care.

Palliative Care

This approach to care focuses on living well while facing a life-limiting illness.

Medications for Glomerulonephritis

Learn why certain drugs are recommended for you, how to take them, what monitoring you will need and possible side effects.

Practical issues can be a big source of stress while you are dealing with chronic kidney disease. Your healthcare team may be able to direct you to help available through your hospital or in your community.

You can also use 211 Ontario to search for services in your area.

Financial Support

If you are having home hemodialysis, you may be eligible for a grant to help offset the added electricity and water costs.

Peer Support

The Kidney Foundation of Canada offers a peer support program for anyone touched by kidney disease.

  • Visit Kidney Connect to connect with other people affected by kidney disease.
  • Call 1-866-390-PEER (7337) to speak to someone who also has experience living with kidney disease.
  • Visit The Kidney Foundation of Canada for more information about peer support.

Volunteer

Become an Ontario Renal Network patient and family advisor to share your perspective and make an impact on the Ontario healthcare system.

Nominate an Extraordinary Caregiver

CCO’s Human Touch Awards recognize people who make a meaningful difference for patients and their families. Find out how to nominate a healthcare professional, provider or volunteer.