My Story…
Our son Kiran was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in Oct 2017 at 20 months old. It's a chronic condition with no cure. After no symptoms for 8 full years, just last month they noticed inflammation (uveitis) in Kiran’s eyes. Uveitis is a risk factor when you have JIA, and he’s been getting steroid drops in his eye. There is no pain in his joints, but this has been a scary wake-up call for us.
In 2017 we discovered Cassie and Friends, a charity that helps kids with juvenile arthritis. They’ve been expanding their footprint in Calgary and across Canada ever since. Given that JIA is back at the forefront of our minds, we want to try and keep the positive karma going this year and raise money for families with JIA.
Description
Help kids and youth with Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and rheumatic diseases see that #HopeFlares when we unite for stronger families, resilient youth and a cure!
In Canada, 3 in 1,000 kids face JA and related conditions like SJIA/Stills, lupus, fever syndromes, JDM and autoinflammatory disorders. These diseases can lead to chronic pain, disability, vision loss, mental health struggles, and even life-threatening complications—yet they remain drastically underfunded and overlooked, with only 20% awareness nationwide.
Team Cassie + Friends is Canada’s only movement 100% dedicated to the JA community. What began with one dad running in 2007 has grown into 750+ runners and thousands of donors rallying together annually for a pain-free future for kids!
By supporting our run/walk, you’ll directly support:
Groundbreaking research into precision medicine, mental health, and a cure
Vital resources like free medical equipment, financial aid, and Comfort Kits
Mentorship for youth and caregivers
Education and connection events for families
Advocacy for earlier diagnosis and equitable care
Together, we can bring hope, support, and brighter futures for kids facing lifelong challenges.
Questions? Contact Marissa Sangers at marissa@cassieandfriends.ca
If registration cost is a barrier, ask about our Kids Run Free bursary program.
Recent donors
Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
---|---|---|
May 22 | Trish and Dave | $107.72 |
May 22 | Eric & Emily | $1,069.14 |
May 22 | Heather Cleveland | Undisclosed amount |
May 22 | Sean Bower | $107.72 |
May 22 | Schmitz Family | $54.31 |
May 22 | Jason Long | $107.72 |
May 22 | Paula T | $100.00 |
May 22 | Jeremy D'Mello | $107.72 |
May 21 | Eric | $54.31 |
May 21 | rhonda somers | $54.31 |