About Us...
Welcome to the African Caribbean Kidney Education Enterprise™ (ACKEE).
At ACKEE, our mission is simple: we are passionate about kidney health, educating Black African Caribbean people to care for their kidneys in life and to donate them in death.
Did you know that people from Black communities are five times more likely to develop Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) than other groups? Factors such as hypertension, diabetes, genetic predisposition, dietary habits, and a lack of health discussions within the community contribute to this disparity.
Our founder, Candice McKenzie, understands this challenge firsthand. Diagnosed with IgA nephropathy in 2019, she experienced the complexities of kidney disease and its impact on life. IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger’s disease, is an autoimmune condition with varying symptoms that may go unnoticed for years. As the kidney function declines, complications such as high blood pressure and the need for dialysis or a transplant arise.
Sadly, in 2022, Candice’s kidneys failed, leading her to start dialysis to sustain her life as she waits for a transplant. Her journey underscores the pressing need for awareness and action within Black communities. 2022/2023 NHS data reveals a stark reality: although Black people represent 13% of the kidney transplant waiting list, only 2% of deceased kidney donors are Black.
At ACKEE, we are committed to changing this narrative. Through advocacy and education, we strive to reduce the incidence of kidney disease and increase organ donation within Black communities.
By fostering dialogue, promoting healthy lifestyles, and raising awareness, we aim to create a future where kidney disease is less prevalent in the Black community and deceased organ donation is increased.
Join us in our mission to advocate and educate. If we plant seeds in life, we can bear fruit in legacy.
With God all things are possible Matthew 19:26
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