Champion of home dialysis Richard Berkowitz dies

[okarol]

Champion of home dialysis Richard Berkowitz dies
JANUARY 20, 2014
Editor's Note: This statement was prepared by Home Dialyzors United staff.

It is with the most profound sadness that Home Dialyzors United announces the death of its founder and president, Richard J. Berkowitz.  Since founding NxStageUsers, the precursor of the present organization, Rich has been a persistent  voice for home dialyzors, for home modalities and for bettering the quality of life for patients.  He was outspoken in his belief that every single patient deserves to live a normal life on their own terms.

Rich was single-minded in his quest to work with members of the House of Representatives to revamp and re-energize the Congressional Kidney Caucus.  In 2012, HDU organized a Capitol Hill briefing with patients and care partners to educate members about home dialysis. As a result, Members better understood patient needs and the Caucus has more effectively worked to protect and advance the rights of patients.

In 2013, Rich spearheaded a campaign which resulted in a definitive ruling by the United States Department of Transportation that portable dialysis machines are indeed included in the definition of medical equipment and, as such, must be transported by airlines free of charge. This decision will benefit both current and future patients, enabling them to travel with less worry.

In addition, he initiated HDU’s annual conference which brings together professionals, patients and care partners to share ideas in an atmosphere of true equality.

Rich’s passion for patients has been evident in the online support and encouragement found in HDU. This determined devotion was seen as often in the 2:00 am motivational emails or calls as it was in his powerfully written blogs, public comments and articles.

Joe Turk, president of NxStage Medical, shared these sentiments: "NxStage's thoughts go out to Rich's family, his friends, and all of the many people he touched with his unique passion for expanding access to home dialysis therapies.  Clearly patients have lost an incredible advocate, and we have lost a good friend.”

Rich’s legacy will live on in the lives of those patients and families who are thriving through home treatment and who are inspired to “pay it forward” by advocating for improved quality of life.

[MooseMom]

This is very sad news for all of us renal patients.  I can't imagine who could replace him.  He was driven by such passion.

Does anyone know what happened?

I am so sorry for his family who must feel his loss so keenly.

[willowtreewren]

Rich fell recently and I think he died of complications from that, although I'm not sure.

His are big shoes to fill. 

Aleta

[boswife]

Another 'peek' into here, and i read this.. It has made me cry.  I cant even believe that this can be.  What a man,...  what a man! He got me through so much with nxStage i feel i could never thank him enough.  God bless his heart and that of his families as well.  Im glad its posted here. People should know what a loss we have in him..  ANd to all you others here who i may know.. HI, and hope your all doing well.  Love to all.. jill

[MooseMom]

It's nice to "see" you, boswife.  I think of you so often.  I know Rich helped you and Bo through NxStage; isn't it wonderful to have had such guidance?