OUR MISSION
The Enlisted Kidney Foundation mobilizes the warrior spirit to conquer kidney disease. We amplify unheard patient voices - especially those of our fellow veterans - through relentless advocacy, trusted education, and unbreakable community. Rooted in courage and service, we fight for equitable care, accelerated research, and a future where every kidney warrior wins their battle.
WHY WE EXIST
EKF was born from the lived experience of Dan Holmes, a U.S. Navy Special Operations veteran who was unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals during a shipboard fire aboard the USS George Washington in 2008. More than a decade later, that exposure triggered a rare kidney disease - Membranous Nephropathy. The delay in diagnosis, lack of support, and emotional fallout weren’t just personal hardships - they were warning signs of a broken system. Dan turned pain into purpose and founded EKF to make sure no other warrior has to fight kidney disease in the dark.
WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT
The Enlisted Kidney Foundation is different because we’re built by warriors, for warriors. As a veteran-founded, patient-led organization, we don’t just talk about kidney disease—we live it. We focus on real stories, not just statistics, and reach deep into underserved communities to bring awareness, education, and support where it’s needed most. From peer-to-peer connection in our Coffee & Conversation to advocacy on Capitol Hill, EKF empowers kidney warriors to fight back, speak out, and reclaim control of their health. We’re mission-first, community-driven, and relentless in our pursuit of equity and action.
What we do
At the Enlisted Kidney Foundation, we don’t just talk—we take action. We stand with kidney warriors, veterans, and underserved communities by showing up where it counts; in hospital rooms, on Capitol Hill, at community events, and across kitchen tables. Whether we’re leading patient support sessions, testifying before lawmakers, or educating the public on toxic exposure and chronic illness, our mission stays the same - empower the unheard, fight for the forgotten, and drive real change.
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With Staffer and team, U.S. Senator Rick Scott, endorsement of the "New ERA ACT"
Washington, D.C.
With Marc Coronel @ Lincoln memorial representing Nephcure's RKD initiatives.
Washington, D.C.
With Joshua Albright @ Nepchure's annual health equity conference together with Black Health Matters Organization
Arlington, VA
With Brian Kennedy, song writer, producer (Rhianna)
Celebrating "Hits to Healing"
Arlington, VA
From the halls of Capitol Hill to packed auditoriums and intimate patient panels, the Enlisted Kidney Foundation is on a mission to make kidney disease impossible to ignore. We advocate for policy change in Washington, raise awareness on national stages, and empower the next generation through education and youth engagement. Every image above tells the story of action, impact, and community. Now, we’re ready to help you take that next step. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, veteran, or ally—EKF is here to help you take action today.
EKF CEO & family
2024 Nephcure Impact
Award Recipient