PLATTSBURGH -- Jeff Dashnaw couldn't live without the H.W. Freedman Renal Center -- literally.

Dashnaw, who suffered kidney failure in 2000, is one of 122 people in Clinton County who get life-saving help through the center, which is located at CVPH Medical Center's Health Plaza.

"They clean my blood so I can live," Dashnaw said. "They hook me up to a machine, and they clean my blood. It's very important to me. It's the only way that I can survive right now without a transplant."

Renal Social Worker Kim Dowdle said people usually start dialysis when their kidney function falls below 10 percent.

Two main causes of kidney problems are diabetes and high blood pressure.

Dowdle has organized a group to participate in the Kidney Foundation Walk this Sunday at Clinton Community College.

She said it gives her a good feeling to help others.

"It's very gratifying because we know that we helped raise the money that patients are now able to use."

Once people begin dialysis, it usually continues for the remainder of their lives.

Dowdle said many people are angry and depressed because of the drastic changes, such as in work, diet and travel.

Dashnaw, who needs to lose 100 pounds before he can be considered for a transplant, said he tries to lead as normal of a life as possible.

"My family runs a farm, and we have a roadside stand during the summer months. I can be pretty active."

Dowdle says some people who have kidney problems place self-imposed restrictions on themselves.

"They feel because they are now on dialysis they can't do the things that they used to do, like bowling, playing bingo or golfing.

"We encourage that they maintain their lifestyle as best as they can."