Extreme Cold Safety Tips

Snow is beautiful to look at, but the extreme cold that comes with it can make daily tasks challenging. This resource has great tips on how to safely leave your home in the cold, what to do if your pipes freeze, and what to pack in an emergency kit. 

Keep Your Information Up to Date

Have you filled out your patient ID card? This is important to keep on hand for both patients and care partners at all times to make sure everyone you’re with knows what medications you are taking, and how to immediately help you if needed. Keep your card safe. Protect your patient ID card by laminating or even covering with clear packaging tape.  

Facility Shoutout!

Your ESRD Network wants to recognize at least one facility staff member each month who is going above and beyond for their patients. This month we want to celebrate DCI Springs Street in Omaha, Nebraska and Mercy Medical Center in Clinton, Iowa. 

Both facilities had either a staff member or a Peer in Action attend more than half of the Peer Connection calls last year! We appreciate your collaboration and attendance during these calls! It’s vital for patients to attend Peer Connection Calls and share personal experiences, and ensure topics are relevant for them. Facility staff who attend Peer Connection Calls can share information with any patients who missed the calls.

Thank you for your continued support Springs Street and Mercy Medical Center! 

Do you have a facility staff member you’d like to nominate for the facility shoutout? Email us the details of who, what, and where at Qsource-Peers@qsource.org. 

Mark Your Calendars! New Peer Call Topics for 2026

All calls take place at 1 p.m. CT on Thursdays and Fridays to accommodate treatment schedules! Feel free to join one or both. Staff is encouraged to join as well!

Upcoming February Peer Calls

Money Talks: Tips on Budgeting and Financial Resources

Financial concerns can be difficult to discuss and are a common source of stress for many individuals. Managing additional medical costs and unexpected expenses can feel overwhelming, but support and practical strategies can make a meaningful difference.

Join our upcoming Peer Connection call to share your experiences related to this part of your kidney journey and learn helpful tips for managing finances and staying on track. Use the links below to join. 

Use the links below to join the calls. 

Or dial in by phone: 901-443-4364

Phone Conference ID: 776 511 653# 

Or dial in by phone: 901-443-4364

Phone Conference ID: 736 311 314# 

Patient Spotlight

Do you have a story to share? Email Qsource-Peers@Qsource.org to learn how to get involved in the next Peer Connection Call! 

Get Involved: Peers in Action

Do you know other patients in your clinic who might want to become a Peer in Action? Please share the flyer with them!

Contact Us

To reach the Patient Services Team for communication about Peer Connection activities, including questions, suggestions, or ideas, you can email the team at

Qsource-Peers@qsource.org.

This material was prepared by Qsource, an End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. 26.ESRD.02.014