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Help Sahara raise money

For participating in 2025 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon

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My Story…

I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2020, four months after my 18th birthday. I'm walking the marathon to raise money for kids with arthritis! For more about me, check out my Instagram @missbrainyblog 

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
Oct 07 The Desk & Chair Foundation. This is a very important cause. $537.69
Oct 04 Mehrene & Soraya $108.31
Oct 04 H&M Kara Undisclosed amount
Oct 04 Saira Rahim $27.80
Oct 04 Musarrat Sheraly Great cause! All the best! Undisclosed amount
Oct 04 James and Behdokht Modarai $50.00
Oct 04 Yasmin, Mandana, Mike and Sam Modarai $100.00
Oct 04 Cassandra So proud of you! Undisclosed amount
Oct 04 Darya Proud of you! $24.58
Oct 04 Rowan Chang Always proud of you!! ♡ $20.00