Tune in to The Heart of Innovation this week as we share an incredible story of a young woman who helped save her grandfather's life and now is trying to save others through organ donation advocacy.

Since it's National Kidney Month, Emmy Award-winning journalist Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips interview Danica Almazan, RN and Miss Marin County 2025, whose family's courageous fight against kidney disease sparked a powerful mission of hope.

You might wonder why we are talking about kidney disease on a show about cardiovascular and vascular health. Kidney disease, especially in advanced stages can lead to peripheral artery disease, which is poor circulation in mainly the legs, and lead to amputation.

Many of the peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients both Kym and Dr. John support have CKD and ESRD, some of which are also in need of a kidney transplant.

They want to get the word out there on the importance of kidney health as well as raise awareness that all kidney disease patients should be checked for peripheral artery disease and to find a doctor who specializes in opening the small vessels below the knee and into the foot, which is where kidney disease patients are typically stricken with PAD.

Whether you're impacted by peripheral artery disease, kidney health challenges, or simply want to understand the power of family support, this episode is a must-watch!

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