My team
My Story…
In March 2019, after months of a swollen knee with limited range of motion, Emily received a diagnosis of Oligo-articular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). What was initially thought to be an injury from the park or typical kid aches were later found to be Emily's immune system attacking her joints. Yes, kids can get arthritis too!
JIA affects 3 in 1,000 kids in Canada, causing pain and limited mobility in a time when they should be running and playing.
Since November 2021, Emily's arthritis has advanced from her knee and ankle to her eyes. Approximately 3,000 kids in Canada have non-infectious uveitis from JIA. Emily is on systemic therapy consisting of weekly injections to control her pain and protect her sight. Whilst there is no cure, the medication appears to be working to place Emily’s symptoms on remission.
We are running to raise money for Cassie & Friends, a Canadian charity for children with rheumatic diseases and their families. They provide valuable resources for parents, kids affected, siblings, schools and all involved in the lives of children with rheumatic disease.
Description
This year, I will be running in support of kids and families affected by juvenile arthritis (JA) and other rheumatic diseases with Cassie + Friends Society. Cassie + Friends is a national charity focused 100% on kids and families impacted by juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Cassie + Friends provides much needed education, awareness, support programs, advocacy and research to families across Canada.
What is JA?
JA is an incurable autoimmune disease in kids that attacks healthy joints and steals childhoods. It’s just as common as Juvenile Diabetes (every 3 in 1000 kids) and yet receives a fraction of the research, awareness and support. Kids with JA live with pain, fatigue and fevers, and many require aggressive medications like chemotherapy.
In 2023, Cassie + Friends is raising money for:
- Providing parents with access to a private Online Support Network
- Supporting families with emergency funds and medical equipment
- Helping fund Monthly Expert-Led educational webinars
- Connecting youth with trained peer mentors
- Fueling critical Advocacy + research into safer Treatments and a cure.
Thank you for your support towards a pain-free future for kids and families affected by juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases!
#TeamCassieAndFriends #JAWontStopMe
Achievements
Recent donors
| Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 20 | Nora | $500.00 |
