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Help Abigail raise money

For participating in 2025 Vancouver Half Marathon

My Story…

My name is Abby :) In November 2024, I was diagnosed with sJIA. In October 2024, I experienced fevers and joint pain almost every night for six consecutive weeks. After visiting several doctors and enduring a few hospital visits, I was referred to a pediatrician. While awaiting results over the weekend, I had to be admitted to BC Children's Hospital with a 39.8°C fever. After spending hours in the ER, they decided to admit me. Once admitted, my test results were expedited. After two days, the doctors confirmed that I had systemic juvenile arthritis. I was placed on a biologic treatment via IV, which required bi-weekly trips to the hospital. After my third visit, I went into anaphylactic shock—not from the IV treatment designed to help me, but from something else. Since then, I have not resumed the IV treatment, and I was waiting for an appointment with the allergist. Fortunately, my blood results have improved without the IV treatment, which feels miraculous. Although my blood results are not where they need to be, I am symptom-free. Today, I am living a normal life with daily oral medication and frequent follow-up visits with the rheumatologists. I feel blessed to have the support of family, friends, loved ones, and especially the medical team at BC Children's. I am running to raise awareness about this disease because I have witnessed its impact on families, regardless of how minor or severe their experiences may be. With increased funding and research, I hope to provide more families with solutions and awareness about this disease. I know it affects not just the kids but also the loved ones around us.

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
Jun 22 Auntie Angela Woohoo, go Abby! You are such an amazing, brave, and strong girl! Keep up the smiles and have a great time. So proud of you! $50.00
Jun 22 Uncle Jon’s friend $50.00
Jun 21 Anonymous Good luck on the walk! We support you Abby!! Undisclosed amount
Jun 21 Anonymous We all support you and all the best! Undisclosed amount
Jun 21 Carmen Wu $100.00
Jun 19 Dorothy Wu We love you Abby! We will always be there for you every step of the way. $50.00
Jun 19 David Wu Thank you for being my inspiration. You have been one of the greatest blessings that happened to me. Baba loves you and Evelyn. 100/100 :) $50.00
Jun 19 James Ko $50.00
Jun 13 Andrea and Joe Robertson Good luck to the Wu family in the run/walk and have fun, and wishing Abby well. $107.72
Apr 07 Stella $22.26