In Memory of Derek Forfang
Derek Forfang, Forum Board of Directors member and Kidney Patient Advisory Council (KPAC) Co-Chair, passed away on October 20, 2023. Derek leaves behind a deep legacy of patient advocacy. He worked hard over the years to improve the quality of life of kidney patients, with particular attention given to depression and supporting patients in asking for help with their mental health.
Derek was a vital member of the Forum of ESRD Networks for over 10 years,. He always said that the Forum and the KPAC were his home. He greatly enjoyed leading and interacting with his colleagues on the KPAC and relished organizing their holiday celebration each year. Derek left his mark on many; in addition to the Forum, he worked with the National Kidney Foundation, the American Society of Nephrology, the Making Dialysis Safer Coalition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and a host of other organizations. He was a published author and frequent speaker. Derek will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear friend.
The Forum has established the Derek Forfang Memorial Fund to honor Derek’s legacy. The Fund will support the work of the Forum's KPAC. Make your tax-deductible donation today. Click on the box next to "Dedicate my donation to the Derek Forfang Memorial Fund," and be sure to leave a message or memory you have of Derek with us in the Message box. If you have a picture of Derek you would like to share, please email it to kbrooks@esrdnetworks.org.
On November 13, 2023, the Forum held a memorial for Derek which was attended by his friends and colleagues from the Forum, the ESRD Networks, and CMS, as well as his family. View a recording of the memorial.
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The National Forum of ESRD Networks, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization #13-3246354. Your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowable by law. No goods or services will be provided by the Forum in return or consideration for this contribution. Donations can also be mailed to the Forum Office at PO Box 70623, Henrico, VA 23255.
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Read the press release here.
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