My Story…
I am running to help raise money for Cassie and Friends. They are a charity that helps support research and families of kids with juvenile rheumatic diseases. My brother has had juvenile arthritis since he was a baby and it was hard to watch him go through so much pain. He is doing much better now but it took a long time to get there. He had arthritis in many joints and inflammation called uveitis in his eyes. Uveitis can cause blindness without any symptoms. My brother was on lots of medication including one that was very painful. My mom tried hard to get the one that wasn’t painful. Cassie and friends helped get the attention it needed to be approved in Canada. Recently my brother went into remission. We hope it stays that way. Please help me raise money to hello all the affected families
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.