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Help Marissa raise money

For participating in Scotiabank Calgary Marathon 2021

My Story…

#WhyIRun

When my daughter, Charlotte was just 2 years old, she had a big swollen toe. We questioned it but thought it was just a break or bruise. We began to worry after a few days when Charlotte refused to walk on it without crying. Our local hospital thought it might have been a mild break, but didn't see anything on x-rays. I trusted my gut and knew it was something more. We went to the Children's Hospital in London, ON where they didn't give up until they knew exactly why our little one was experiencing so much pain. It took almost a year, multiple referrals and tests until finally a doctor said to us "this looks like Juvenile Arthritis"

We were shocked - and confused. My husband and I had never heard of JIA! Kids could get arthritis?! As the last 6 years have passed since this strange big toe - Charlotte has tried more than 10 different medications, had multiple joint injections, daily physiotherapy, types of braces and supports and struggled with the physical and emotional tole of her condition. She now is taking daily medications and has to go for Biologic infusions at the Children's hospital every 4 weeks just to keep her pain under some sort of control - and it still isn't perfect.

Parenting this has been especially challenging. There is so many times where I have been overwhelmed with information and questions on this journey. One late night and avid researching - I found Cassie and Friends. I knew that there had to be SOMEONE out there who understood what I was going through. I finally didn't feel alone..

Through Cassie and Friends, I have been able to be part of a team fundraising for things such as the Loan Cupboard at LHSC (providing supports and resources to families with JIA and other rheumatic diseases), Educate friends and family with informative, research based information, and find supports to help Charlotte no longer feel alone. 

Cassie and Friends is more than just a charity to me.
They are our community, our family and helping make a difference for our girl. 

Achievements

Recent donors

Donation date Donor name Donation amount
Aug 23 Steve & Gail Yantzi $50.00
Aug 22 Chad Dunham $25.00
Aug 18 Fred Godbolt $50.00
Aug 18 Lois and George Godbolt $100.00
Aug 17 Marshall Scott $20.00
Aug 12 Garry and Colleen Johnson $25.00
Aug 10 Gordon Johnson and Kristin Johnson $200.00
Aug 10 Great Opa and Great Oma We love you!! Undisclosed amount
Aug 09 Brad Vivian You got this kiddo Go Charlotte superstar $250.00
Aug 09 Brad, Lori Baker and family Go team Cassie!!! $100.00