NEWS RELEASE
March 25, 1998

Haveman to Receive National Kidney Foundation of Michigan "Champion of Hope Award"

Michigan Department of Community Health Director James K. Haveman, Jr., will be presented with the "Champion of Hope Award" by the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan this evening in Lansing.

"Kidney disease can strike anyone at any age," said Haveman. "Half of all cases of kidney disease can be prevented or slowed by controlling diabetes and high blood pressure. The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan has been an outstanding partner in our efforts to prevent kidney disease."

Former Representative John Jamian will also receive a "Champion of Hope Award" this evening. The Champion of Hope Tribute Dinner will be held at the Radisson Hotel, Wednesday, March 25, 1998, and is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Proceeds from this event support the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. In Michigan alone, there are more than 8,000 patients on dialysis and more than 1,600 awaiting life saving kidney transplants.

The Department of Community Health funds several programs to fight kidney disease. The Department has joined efforts with the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan to achieve early identification, treatment and referral and to implement a statewide educational effort to provide information on the risks of kidney disease.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACT: Geralyn Lasher
March 25, 1998 (517) 241-2112