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Help Cassie raise money

For participating in 2025 Vancouver Half Marathon

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My Story…

Hi! My name is Cassie and I was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis when I was 20 months old. One morning I woke up and I couldn't walk, so my parents rushed me to the hospital where I was diagnosed. Over the years, I have managed to overcome the pain, and become resilient. When my parents started Cassie + Friends I have had the opportunity to meet other kids with arthritis which has been very supportive. I am now 20 years old and studying health sciences in university on the path to become a pediatric rheumatologist and help other kids like me!

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 31 Blythe Brooks-Hill You are amazing Cassie! Good luck in the run! Undisclosed amount
May 31 Dad Nothing will ever stop you Cassie!! Undisclosed amount
May 31 Nanny & Zaidy Rosenshein It is our pleasure to support Cassie!!!! Undisclosed amount
May 30 Fernanda $11.58
May 30 Maya Miller You’re my inspiration, way to go Cass🎉❤️ Undisclosed amount
May 30 Amy and Mark Bloch Way to go Cassie and Jesse! Xo Undisclosed amount
May 30 Stacey & Jeff Walton Happy to support this cause! Undisclosed amount
May 30 Danielle Alterman Go Cassie go!! ❤️ Undisclosed amount
May 30 Anonymous Go Cassie!!!!!!!! 🏃🎉 $5.00
May 30 Jesse Walton Great work! Keep on running! Undisclosed amount