Welcome to Western PA Kidney Support Groups
The Western PA Kidney Support Groups was founded on May 17, 2010 by the late Jack Silverstein, the late Robb Wilson, and our dear friend the late Stephanie Page. Through our personal experiences with kidney disease and organ transplants, we found it was difficult to find information and meet others going through the same struggles we faced.
We created WPKSG as a nonprofit to enable those with chronic kidney disease, transplant recipients and candidates, as well as caregivers to meet and share common experiences.
We aim to provide useful information that can explain your options, help you make informed decisions and improve everyday living. Currently, we operate support groups locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and have over 400 participants involved with our organization.
News
With deep sadness, we share the news that our good friend, Jack Silverstein, President of The Western PA Kidney Support Groups, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, at home with his loving family. Jack lived his life with passion and cause to support those living a life in need of a second chance. He spent countless hours spreading awareness about the importance of donation and teaching how to live a life with a transplant. Jack, along with the late Stephanie Page and Robb Wilson, founded the Western PA Kidney Support Groups. This network of support groups helps to serve kidney patients and caregivers throughout our region. In addition, Jack was recognized for his service by the
National Kidney Foundation as a 2019 recipient of the Small Hands Big Heart award. Jack was a member of Team Alleghenies, competing in golf and bowling, traveling across the United States and on the World level. Jack would be found volunteering at local area hospitals, sharing his experience with transplantation and promoting the support groups.
Jack's legacy will never be forgotten. Even upon death, he gave...he helped others in need of a donor. He continues to be a hero to hundreds in need, donating his own tissue, bone, skin, and cartilage. Jack will be greatly missed throughout the transplant community. To view Jack's tribute in its entirety, please visit the Post Gazette article written by Janice Compton