Iya Foundation Hugs Affair - 8/20/2016

The Iya Foundation (http://theiyafoundation.org) is a not-for-profit organization founded by Iya Bekondo-Granatella, a renal transplant recipient.  Iya was only 7yrs old when she was diagnosed with kidney disease. Ten years later, she lost both kidneys and had to go on dialysis. At age 17, while most teenagers are out having fun and being adventurous, Iya was on dialysis, trying to stay alive. This went on for five years, till 2005, when her mother, Rose Bekondo, donated a kidney to her.  Her transplant was made possible by her alma mater Middlesex County College, her church, First Presbyterian Church Metuchen, family, and friends who held various fundraising events to fund the transplant and ensure that Iya would have her much needed post-transplant anti-rejection medications.
After experiencing such love, support, and generosity, Iya used her second chance to life to express gratitude by paying it forward. With a burning desire to give back, a passion to save lives and a determination to give others second chances like she received, The Iya Project  and The Iya Foundation was born.
Our foundation is committed to educate and raise awareness on kidney disease and organ donation; especially in the African immigrant community as well as to raise funds to assist low income uninsured end stage renal disease patients. The Iya Foundation also aims to reach out to underdeveloped countries; with the help of partners and funding from both private and public sectors.
The event will play host to some 150 guests. There will be a fashion show by international brand - African Style, keynote speaker, dinner, dance and much more, for an evening of elegance, excitement, and purpose.
 
Proceeds from “The Iya Foundation Hope Affaire” will fund The Iya Foundation Global Dialysis Initiative Program (GDIP), a new program started earlier this year, with a primary focus to provide assistance to Dialysis Clinics in developing countries.
Looking forward to seeing you on August 20th.