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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 04 Meghan McCracken $11.70
Oct 04 Fariza Alidina Undisclosed amount
Oct 04 Naz What a great cause. All the best 💕 $27.80
Oct 03 Kaniz Sumar All the best! $54.63
Oct 03 Shameel Undisclosed amount
Oct 03 Nargis Dhirani $54.63
Oct 01 Anonymous Good luck Sahara Wish you all the best $54.63
Oct 01 Sajida Hemani Great cause Undisclosed amount
Oct 01 Fayaaz Jaffer What an amazing cause!! Undisclosed amount
Oct 01 Racy R ❤️ Undisclosed amount