GLENDALE, CA (November, 29 2010)--The 12th Annual Renal Teen Prom, “Out of This World,” sponsored by Renal Support Network (RSN), will be held on Sunday, January 16, 2011 at Notre Dame High School. Set in the style of a gala senior prom, there is no charge for teenagers and young adults with kidney disease and one guest to attend the event.

More than 400 kidney teens (ages 14-24) who are on dialysis, pre-dialysis, or with a transplant and their guests from throughout Southern California attend. The prom also attracts teens from as far as Washington, Arizona, Texas, Colorado, and New Jersey.

These young people experience a night of dancing and entertainment, dinner and hors d’oeuvres, limousine rides, glamour photos, and appearances by Hollywood celebrities who sign autographs and mingle. This year RSN is excited to host America’s Got Talent star magician Michael Grasso, who was one of the top ten finalists on the show. As a three time kidney transplant recipient, Grasso has a personal connection to kidney disease and can relate to and inspire the young people who attend this memorable event.

To ensure that everyone in attendance feels elegant, evening gowns (which the young women can keep) are donated, as are ties for the young men. Transportation to the Prom from Southern California areas can be provided.

Notre Dame High students, alumni and RSN volunteers devote an entire weekend decorating the school gymnasium for the prom. The decorations include extravagant sets designed by Hollywood movie professionals. The community (patients, health care professionals, family members and numerous volunteers) comes together to make this event an annual success and a special night the teens will never forget.

The Renal Teen Prom is the inspiration of Lori Hartwell, RSN’s President and Founder, who missed her own prom due to kidney disease. Many teenagers with kidney disease miss large amounts of school and their own Prom because of prolonged absences due to health issues. The Renal Teen Prom brings these young people together to share their experiences, strengths, and hopes with other kidney teens. It lets them know they are not alone and that “one friend can make a difference.”

Those interested in requesting an invitation or making a donation should contact Renal Support Network at (866) 903-1728.

About Renal Support Network

Renal Support Network is a nonprofit, patient-focused, patient-run organization that provides non-medical services to those affected by chronic kidney disease. RSN strives to motivate and assist patients in developing their personal coping skills, special talents, and employability by educating and empowering them (and their family members) to take control of the course and management of their disease Renal Support Network values people with kidney disease and helps them become self-sufficient through education, advocacy, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Media Contact:

Jessica Garcia

Jessica@RSNhope.org

(818) 287-8318