My Story…
Our story begins with our beautiful 20 month old son. He became sick with a cold and an ear infection. Soon after he developed some swelling to his knee, days later he stopped walking. Our energetic boy who days prior was running around was now crying in pain. We had no idea this would become the focus of our lives for the next 10 years. After multiple procedures, weeks of antibiotics and a long hospital stay he was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. I was devasted. I knew this disease well as I suffered from the same one. I knew the pain, I knew the frustration and I knew the loneliness that lay ahead. I was determined that we were going to fight this. We were going to prevent our son from suffering the lifelong joint damage that occurred to me. I didn't want him to be affected by daily pain. Over the next 10 year (this month) we would be filled with appointments, medication, bloodwork, ultrasounds, IVs, there were so many tears, so many victories. A couple of years after his diagnosis we were connected with Cassie and Friends. This was the only organization dedicated to juvenile rheumatic disease, something I wish I had available to me as a child and youth. I am grateful for the support we have been given and the constant cheering. This week, 10 years to the month after his diagnosis, he is in remission. We know he could flare at any time but we are going to take this win. As a family we have really enjoyed the Calgary Run in order to feel connected to this amazing organization. We would love to have your support in order to continue researching in order to cure rheumatic disease in children.
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 23 | Kim Whitney | $54.31 |
May 23 | Laura Shannon | $43.62 |
May 21 | Erika Loewen | $54.31 |
May 21 | Alisa Lane | $54.31 |
May 18 | The Dunlops | $54.31 |
May 16 | Sharon Hanley Allo | $107.72 |
May 15 | Nicole | $27.60 |
May 15 | Beth | $27.60 |
May 15 | Deb | $107.72 |
May 14 | Waffles & Crew | $267.96 |