BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Cassie and Friends Society - ECPv6.16.5.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Cassie and Friends Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Toronto BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Vancouver BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20210314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20211107T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20220313T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20221106T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20230312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20231105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20270314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20271107T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20210101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260524T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260524T150000 DTSTAMP:20260327T205026Z CREATED:20260327T204210Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T205026Z UID:16587-1779627600-1779634800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Team C+F Montreal Run/Walk DESCRIPTION:Team Cassie + Friends Montréal 2026\nMay 24 2026 | Montréal\, QC | 1-3pm\n\nRegister to Join Team C+F Montreal Here!\nOn May 24\, stand with kids and youth living with Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and other rheumatic diseases to show that #KidsCantWait for equitable care. Together\, we are racing from Care to Cure.  \nWe are so excited to bring the Team Cassie + Friends Montreal Run/Walk back to our local community. There is something incredibly special about seeing our families\, students\, and healthcare partners gather in person—raising funds\, spreading awareness\, and making the kind of connections that remind us we aren’t walking this path alone. \nYour Impact\nEvery step taken and every dollar raised helps Cassie + Friends provide vital support systems\, including: \n\nFamily Navigation & Youth Mentorship\nMental Health Supports\nInjection Support Tools\nLife-changing Research & Advocacy\n\nJoin us in Montreal to walk\, run\, and connect. Let’s show our kids and teens that they have an entire community behind them. \nRegister Now! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/montrealrunwalk/ LOCATION:Montreal\, QC CATEGORIES:Quebec,Team C+F Run/Walks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260523 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260525 DTSTAMP:20260327T205014Z CREATED:20260327T201600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T205014Z UID:16584-1779494400-1779667199@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Team C+F Calgary Run/Walk DESCRIPTION:Team Cassie + Friends Calgary 2026\nMay 23-24 2026 | Calgary\, AB\n\nRegister to Join Team C+F Calgary Here!\nOn May 23-24\, stand with kids and youth living with Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and other rheumatic diseases to show that #KidsCantWait for equitable care. Together\, we are racing from Care to Cure.  \nWe are so excited to bring the Team Cassie + Friends CalgaryRun/Walk back to our local community as part of the Servus Calgary Marathon. There is something incredibly special about seeing our families\, students\, and healthcare partners gather in person—raising funds\, spreading awareness\, and making the kind of connections that remind us we aren’t walking this path alone. \nJoin our team and sign up for the 5km\, or the half or full marathons. Be sure to select “Cassie + Friends” as your preferred fundraising organization! \nYour Impact\nEvery step taken and every dollar raised helps Cassie + Friends provide vital support systems\, including: \n\nFamily Navigation & Youth Mentorship\nMental Health Supports\nInjection Support Tools\nLife-changing Research & Advocacy\n\nJoin us in Calgary to walk\, run\, and connect. Let’s show our kids and teens that they have an entire community behind them. \nRegister Now! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/calgaryrunwalk-2/ LOCATION:Calgary\, AB\, Calgary\, AB\, Canada CATEGORIES:Alberta,Calgary,Team C+F Run/Walks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260516 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260518 DTSTAMP:20260327T195046Z CREATED:20240305T032546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T195046Z UID:13170-1778889600-1779062399@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Team C+F Halifax Run/Walk DESCRIPTION:Team Cassie + Friends Halifax 2026\nMay 16-17 2026 | Halifax\, NS\n\nRegister to Join Team C+F Halifax Here!\nOn May 16-17\, stand with kids and youth living with Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and other rheumatic diseases to show that #KidsCantWait for equitable care. Together\, we are racing from Care to Cure.  \nWe are so excited to bring the Team Cassie + Friends Halifax Run/Walk back to our local community as part of the Medavie Blue Nose Marathon. There is something incredibly special about seeing our families\, students\, and healthcare partners gather in person—raising funds\, spreading awareness\, and making the kind of connections that remind us we aren’t walking this path alone. \nJoin our team and sign up for the Doctors 2km or 4km Youth runs\, the Purple Cow 5km\, or the half or full marathons. Be sure to select “Cassie + Friends” as your preferred fundraising organization! \nYour Impact\nEvery step taken and every dollar raised helps Cassie + Friends provide vital support systems\, including: \n\nFamily Navigation & Youth Mentorship\nMental Health Supports\nInjection Support Tools\nLife-changing Research & Advocacy\n\nJoin us in Halifax to walk\, run\, and connect. Let’s show our kids and teens that they have an entire community behind them. \nRegister Now!\nThank you for stepping up towards a pain-free future for kids affected by juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. If you have any questions\, please do not hesitate to contact info@cassieandfriends.ca URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/halifaxrunwalk/ LOCATION:Halifax\, NS\, 5775 Cogswell St\, Halifax\, NS\, B3K 4B2\, Canada CATEGORIES:Halifax,Maritimes,New Brunswick,P.E.I END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260330T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260330T180000 DTSTAMP:20260317T171715Z CREATED:20250206T222507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T171715Z UID:15480-1774888200-1774893600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Family Rheum Chat: Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month DESCRIPTION:Let’s close Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month together.\nWe’re inviting families from across Canada to join a special Family Rheum Chat – a space to connect\, learn and hear how your voice can shape the future of children’s care.Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into this journey\, this conversation is a chance to hear from others who understand the realities of life with JIA and related conditions.\nWho you’ll hear from:\n\nJennifer Wilson\, Executive Director: On #KidsCantWait and what we’re doing about it\nDeborah Marshall\, Professor and Svare Chair\, Health Economics\, Value and Impact\, University of Calgary: Understanding the real costs of arthritis on children and their families\nMarissa Sangers\, Family Engagement Coordinator: Creating space to share and learn with all of you – the heart of our community.\n\nWe can’t wait to see you there! \nAll parents and caregivers are welcome. \nLearn More and Register Here \nDr. Deborah MarshallDr. Deborah Marshall\, PhD\, is a professor in the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) and the Svare Chair\,Health Economics Value and Impact at University of Calgary. A world-renowned health economist and researcher\, she has dedicated her career to measuring the socioeconomic burden of childhood arthritis and improving patient care. Through her leadership in the UCAN and PAVE projects\, Deborah is a passionate advocate for including patient and family voices to ensure that research and healthcare systems truly reflect the lived realities of the pediatric rheumatic community. \nJennifer WilsonJennifer is the Executive Director of Cassie + Friends. When she joined C+F as their first employee in 2013\, she had never heard of arthritis in children. Through learning about the condition and immersing herself in the pediatric rheumatic disease community\, Jennifer found a noble purpose and has since dedicated herself to pursuing C+F’s vision of a pain-free future for kids. \nMarissa SangersC+F’s Family Engagement Coordinator and JA mom\, Marissa Sangers has been a dedicated advocate since 2019\, and will share helpful tools\, resources\, and ways to stay connected with Cassie + Friends. As a parent to a child with JA\, she understands the journey firsthand and is passionate about supporting families through community\, education\, and advocacy. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/familyrheumchat/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260321 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260322 DTSTAMP:20260122T154100Z CREATED:20260122T151608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T154100Z UID:15289-1774051200-1774137599@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Melodies in Motion: A Fundraiser for Kids Living With Juvenile Arthritis DESCRIPTION:Melodies in Motion: A Fundraiser for Kids Living with Juvenile Arthritis\n\n\nSaturday\, March 21st\, 2026\nBewdley Community Centre\n7060 Lake Street\, Bewdley\, ON\nDoors open at 7:00 PM | Trivia begins at 8:00 PM\n19+ Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat this night is about:\n\nMelodies in Motion is a lively evening of music trivia\, prizes\, food\, and community spirit in support of Cassie + Friends — the only charity in Canada 100% dedicated to families living with Juvenile Arthritis and other rheumatic diseases like lupus and vasculitis. \nHosted by local parent ambassador and advocate Bobby-Jo Vervoort\, this 19+ event brings together friends\, neighbours\, and local businesses to raise awareness and vital funds for kids who live every day with pain\, fatigue\, and uncertainty — yet keep moving forward with extraordinary courage. \n\nFunds raised help ensure kids and families can access:\n– Trusted education and resources\n– Emotional and peer support\n– Youth mentorship and confidence-building programs\n– Research and advocacy that puts kids’ needs first \nBecause kids can’t wait for care\, understanding\, or relief. \n\n\n\nRegister here! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/melodiesinmotion/ LOCATION:Bewdley Community Centre\, 7060 Lake St\, Bewdley\, ON\, Canada CATEGORIES:Ontario END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260217T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260217T183000 DTSTAMP:20260206T145017Z CREATED:20250123T222256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T145017Z UID:15270-1771347600-1771353000@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Rare Talks: When Answers Take Time: Real Lives\, Rare Disease\, and Support That Matters DESCRIPTION:When a child is living with a rare rheumatic disease\, answers often take time. Families may face long diagnostic journeys\, unpredictable symptoms\, and too few resources designed for their realities. Too often\, their experiences remain unseen. \nRareTalks is a space created to change that. \nHeld during Rare Disease Month\, this annual virtual event brings together families\, youth\, and the broader childhood rheumatic disease community to make rare experiences visible—and to remind families that they are not alone. Through shared stories\, trusted information\, and meaningful connection\, RareTalks offers support for every stage of the journey\, from first symptoms to long-term care. \nThis year\, RareTalks will feature patient speaker\, Kai\, and his mom\, Amy\, who will share their family’s lived experience navigating a rare rheumatic disease called PFAPA (Periodic Fever\, Aphthous stomatitis\, Pharyngitis\, Adenitis). From the challenges of diagnosis and ongoing flares to school\, mental health\, and advocacy\, their story reflects what so many families face when answers take time. \nJoin us on Tuesday\, February 17\, 2026 at 5pm PST | 8pm EST\, for an evening of learning\, reflection\, and connection.\nAll childhood rheumatic disease types are welcome. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister now! Hosted by Marissa Sangers\, a parent to a child living with enthesitis-related arthritis and Family Engagement Coordinator at Cassie + Friends. After more than a year seeking answers before receiving her daughters diagnosis—and while continuing to navigate new and ongoing medical questions for symptoms she experiences—Marissa is all too familiar with the uncertainty\, advocacy\, and emotional toll that often define the rare and under-recognized disease journey. This lived experience fuels her commitment to learning alongside families\, amplifying lived experience\, and helping create spaces where families feel seen\, believed\, and supported. \n Amy and Kai are a mother-son duo from British Columbia who have spent years navigating life alongside PFAPA. As Kai has grown from childhood into young adulthood\, their family has balanced school\, work\, and chronic illness while searching for answers\, managing uncertainty\, and learning how to advocate within complex medical systems. Through sharing their experience\, Amy and Kai hope to raise awareness\, reduce isolation\, and help other families feel less alone on a similar journey. \n Kelly L. Brown\, PhD\, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia and a Scientific Lead in the Division of Rheumatology at the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Kelly’s research focuses on understanding why harmful inflammation develops in children with rheumatic diseases\, with particular attention to vasculitis and PFAPA. By studying how these conditions begin and change over time\, Kelly’s work aims to support more personalized\, evidence-based care and improve how physicians assess disease and predict outcomes. Kelly is also deeply committed to education\, equity\, and preparing the next generation of scientists to translate research into meaningful improvements in patient care. \n Dr. Liane Heale completed her medical training at the University of Western Ontario and her pediatric residency and pediatric rheumatology subspecialty training at the University of Toronto. She joined the Division of Pediatric Rheumatology at McMaster Children’s Hospital in 2018. Her main research interests are examining and promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices to enhance the lives of children with rheumatic disease and developing and implementing patient registries to better understand systemic autoinflammatory diseases. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/raretalks/ LOCATION:Zoom END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260111T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260111T150000 DTSTAMP:20251215T182746Z CREATED:20250820T181023Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T182746Z UID:16215-1768136400-1768143600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Workshop on Writing Effective Scholarship and Bursary Applications DESCRIPTION:We’re back for part 2! \nCassie + Friends’ youth mentors are back with another workshop for students\, this time about how to write effective scholarship and bursary applications! \nLed by youth mentor\, Ciara Mahaffy (who secured $85\,000+ in scholarships!) and other scholarship recipients\, this session will teach you how to: \n\nUse storytelling\, tone\, and structure to craft stronger applications\nCommunicate your personal story with confidence and professionalism\nApply proven techniques and insider tips from high-achieving applicants\nUnderstand what scholarship committees actually look for\n\nJoin us for part 2 of this FREE online workshop on January 11 at 1 p.m. PST. \nSign up now for the online workshop here! \nRegister here!Ciara Mahaffy is a Cassie + Friends Youth Mentor and a high-achieving student who has secured over $85\,000 in scholarships. She was Valedictorian at the University of Toronto and has served as an application assessor for university programs\, giving her an insider perspective on what makes applications stand out. \nCiara is passionate about helping students tell their personal stories effectively\, and she’s here to share her step-by-step approach to writing compelling scholarship and bursary applications. She knows how to turn application stress into confidence and clarity\, and she’ll provide practical tips to help you showcase your achievements and experiences with professionalism and authenticity. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/scholarshipwriting/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education,Youth Leader Network,Youth Mentorship Program END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20250726T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20250726T160000 DTSTAMP:20250616T193534Z CREATED:20250428T213939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T193534Z UID:15959-1753524000-1753545600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Juvenile Arthritis Family Day DESCRIPTION:Juvenile Arthritis Family Day in\nKitchener-Waterloo\, ON\n\n\n\n\nSaturday\, July 26 at Bingemans! \nCassie + Friends invites you to a special Juvenile Arthritis Family Day in the Kitchener/Waterloo region—a FREE\, in-person event designed to connect\, educate\, and empower families impacted by Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and other childhood rheumatic diseases. \n\n\n\n\nWhether you’re newly diagnosed\, have been managing JA for years\, or somewhere in between\, this is your chance to build community\, gain confidence\, and discover new ways to support your child’s health and well-being. \nHere’s what you can expect:\n\n• Expert-Led Education: Learn from pediatric rheumatology specialists about the latest in treatments\, disease management\, and tools to help your child—and your whole family—thrive. \n• Fun for Kids\, Teens and Siblings: Age-appropriate programming designed to entertain\, build friendships\, and boost resilency in a supportive environment. \n• Parent & Caregiver Connection: Network with others who understand what you’re going through—share experiences\, ask questions\, and find encouragement. \n\n\n\n\nThis special day is made possible by local fundraising efforts. Patients and families from London Health Science Centre\, McMaster Children’s Hospital and NEO Kids clinic in Sudbury will be given priority registration\, space is limited—secure your spot today by registering here! We can’t wait to meet you and your family! \nPlease reach out to Marissa Sangers at marissa@cassieandfriends.ca with any questions or comments. \n\n\n\n\nRegister Now\n“Family Day is where we found our community of support. It gave us hope\, knowledge\, and friendships that continue today.” – C+F Parent \n\nThank you to our generous community partners! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/jafamilyday/ LOCATION:Bingemans\, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr\, Kitchener\, ON\, N2B 3X7\, Canada CATEGORIES:Family Day ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Event-Banner-CVENT-and-WordPress-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250525 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250526 DTSTAMP:20250205T180612Z CREATED:20250205T180612Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250205T180612Z UID:15458-1748131200-1748217599@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Team C+F Montreal Run/Walk - Courir/Marche DESCRIPTION:Team Cassie + Friends  \nMontreal Run/Walk 2025 \nRegister Here! \nOn May 25th\, 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! \nThis May\, our team will get together for the first ever Team Cassie + Friends Montreal Run/Walk. We are excited to complete another successful Team Cassie + Friends event! It’s always so special to see our community come together\, raising money\, spreading awareness\, and making connections in the name of JIA and other rheumatic diseases.\n\nTeam 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! \nJoin us this year as we race towards a pain-free future for kids on May 25th! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/team-cf-montreal-run-walk/ LOCATION:Montreal\, QC CATEGORIES:Quebec,Team C+F Run/Walks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/montreal-event-header.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20250318T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20250318T173000 DTSTAMP:20250219T001254Z CREATED:20250207T223917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T001254Z UID:15507-1742313600-1742319000@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:YMP WORD Day Event: Sharing Your Diagnosis with Friends - Let's Talk About It! DESCRIPTION:Talking about your rheumatic disease with friends can be tough – but you’re not alone and C+F youth mentors can help! This WORD Day (March 18th at 4pm PST / 7pm EST)\, join us for a real talk on having conversations about your diagnosis. Whether you’ve never told anyone or want to get better at explaining it\, this is a safe\, no-pressure space to connect\, share\, and learn from others who’ve been there. \nWhat to Expect:\n• Hear from YMP mentors who will share their own experiences of deciding when (and how) to open up about their diagnosis.\n• Be a part of an open discussion on the challenges of sharing and the reactions you might get.\n• Get tips & advice on how to start the conversation with friends\, classmates\, and even teachers.\n• Learn more about our 1-1 youth mentorship opportunities where you can continue chatting through topics like this one in a supportive space. \nLet’s talk it out together and help spread the WORD about childhood rheumatic disease.If you’re between the ages of 12-26 and living with a rheumatic disease\, be sure to register here today! 💙💚 URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/ymp-word-day-event-sharing-your-diagnosis-with-friends/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:JA2025Youth,TAG,Youth Leader Network,Youth Mentorship Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/WORD-DAY-1280-x-720-px-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20241027T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20241027T140000 DTSTAMP:20240927T125411Z CREATED:20240920T184017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240927T125411Z UID:14727-1730030400-1730037600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:National Mentoring Day Virtual Connection Event DESCRIPTION:Cassie + Friends National Mentoring Day Virtual Connection EventMentorship can make a significant difference in a child or teen’s ability to cope with rheumatic disease. On October 27\, join C+F’s Youth Mentorship Program crew to celebrate the power of mentorship this #NationalMentoringDay. You’ll get to meet other youth who understand what it’s like to live with a rheumatic condition\, share stories\, and chat about whatever is on your mind in a casual setting. \nFeel free to drop in for a quick hello or stick around for the whole chat! It’s a no-pressure environment\, perfect for hanging out\, asking questions\, and talking to others who understand what it’s like to navigate life with a rheumatic disease. \nHere’s what a past attendee said: \n“It wasn’t until I was on that Zoom call with six other people my age who had my same diagnosis as me that I truly felt seen in my experiences in growing up with JIA. The connection to the others was instant: it was so comforting to meet others who had also been through the same things I had.” – C+F Youth \nCome celebrate #NationalMentoringDay with us. We look forward to seeing you there! \nRegister here!This is a C+F Youth Mentorship Program Event\, learn more about the program here. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/nmd/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Youth Mentorship Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/UptownMedia_A9100097-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240822T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240822T183000 DTSTAMP:20240815T145955Z CREATED:20240807T185633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240815T145955Z UID:14409-1724344200-1724351400@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Cassie Connects: Back to School Caregiver Q&A Night DESCRIPTION:Feeling nervous for your child’s first/next year at school\, especially when it comes to supporting their health needs? What about gym class or sports? Wondering how to manage the transition into older grades or even post-secondary? Looking for tips from experienced parents/caregivers? We’ve got you covered! \nOn August 22nd\, you’re invited to tap into the Cassie + Friends’ ConnectWork of families and other experts to discuss all things ‘back to school’ with rheumatic disease (yes\, it’s that time already!). Bring your school-related questions and get valuable input on all the hot topics on every parent’s mind – from what shoes to buy for your child\, how to best communicate with teachers\, and so much more! \nWhat is the C+F ConnectWork? \nOur ConnectWork is designed to help you build strong personal connections\, share valuable insights\, and navigate the challenges of living with a rheumatic condition more easily. As part of our ConnectWork\, you’ll gain access to a wealth of tailored resources\, expert healthcare teams\, cutting-edge research\, and\, most importantly\, a network of others who truly understand your journey. Together\, we can all make childhood rheumatic diseases a little brighter as we work together towards better care\, more awareness and a cure! \nGrab your C+F School Action Plan and join us for a casual online get-together where we’ll learn from experts\, share back-to-school plans\, resources\, tips\, and chat about anything that’s on your mind. \nRegister today! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/school/ LOCATION:Zoom ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/BTS-Event-.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240815T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240815T170000 DTSTAMP:20240730T132549Z CREATED:20240729T212242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T132549Z UID:14223-1723734000-1723741200@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Summer Refresher DESCRIPTION:Cassie + Friends Summer Refresher Youth Event We’re so excited to be back with another Youth Mentorship Connection Event\, this time with a summer twist! \nGrab your favourite summer drink and join us for a casual online get-together where we’ll swap summer stories\, share fall plans and chat about anything that’s on your mind. \nOur Youth Mentorship Connection Events (for youth ages 12-26 living with childhood rheumatic diseases)\, are a relaxed environment where you can meet our incredible Youth Mentors\, connect with others who truly understand what it’s like like to navigate a rheumatic disease\, and chat about a variety of topics — all while enjoying a chill atmosphere. \nWe can’t wait to see you there – August 15 at 3 pm PST / 6 pm EST. \nREGISTER HERE!This is a C+F Youth Mentorship Program Event\, learn more about the program here.\n  URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/summer-refresher/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Youth Leader Network,Youth Mentorship Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Summer-Refresher-Logos-3-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240609T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240609T133000 DTSTAMP:20240613T175853Z CREATED:20240514T144955Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T175853Z UID:13700-1717930800-1717939800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:2024 Future Leaders Showcase DESCRIPTION:Join us for the 2nd annual Cassie + Friends\, Future Leaders Showcase – our capstone event to the Future Leaders Program. \nOn Sunday\, June 9 our C+F Future Leaders will be presenting four inspiring\, youth–led projects aimed at driving connection\, education and awareness in the childhood rheumatic disease community – and we hope you’ll join us in cheering them on! \nThe most exciting part? They’ll be pitching their ideas to a panel of industry leaders for the opportunity to receive funding to kick-start their projects and make a big impact in our community. \nJoining our esteemed panel of funders are: \n• David Porte\, Founder & Chair of C+F and President\, Porte Communities\n• Alison Hoskins\, CEO of Integris Credit Union\n• Darren Hawrish\, C+F Board Member and Investor/Innovator for brands like Native Shoes\, Saxx and BN3NTH \nAfter a year of skills training\, mentorship and hard work\, our C+F Future Leaders are thrilled to showcase their projects and can’t wait to see you there. \nWe hope you’ll join us in commending our cohort members on their dedication to and passion for contributing to the childhood rheumatic disease community! \nRegister Today!Meet our 2023/2024 Future Leaders and Learn About their ProjectsEmilyEmily’s project will focus on better educating and informing teachers on what rheumatic diseases are\, how they can impact students at school\, and what they can be doing to better support and provide accommodation to students in their classrooms. Ultimately\, she hopes this project will help create a more inclusive environment and foster more positive experiences for youth with rheumatic diseases in schools. She hopes this project will not only help to improve the experiences of youth with rheumatic diseases\, but also help students with a range of chronic illnesses\, conditions and other challenges. The inspiration for this project came from her own experiences struggling to get accommodation and additional support at school. For many youth living with a chronic illness\, the inability to access accommodation is a universal experience\, and it does not need to be. \nKaylaKayla’s project involves running an awareness campaign in the form of local partnerships across Canada. This idea is in the early works\, but she envisions it as partnering with local businesses that target families to give out something like a sticker with every purchase and having proceeds go to Cassie +Friends. She strives to create something that gives youth and families the opportunity to inform others about arthritis and challenge people to talk more openly about their disease instead of internalizing or hiding the disease. \nShe is inspired to create this project because she has experience working in an advertising and marketing roles as part of her co-op program at school. Her previous experience has been with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations on various awareness campaigns and projects. Taking on this awareness project with C + F is a fun way for her to practice her skills and continue working toward her professional goals while also benefiting a cause she values. She is keen to leverage her personal experiences with rheumatic disease and her professional connections to execute this project. \nGraemeGraeme’s project aims to provide a voice for people with rheumatic diseases through music. Through both his mentorship and personal experiences\, he’s seen how isolating rheumatic diseases can be. Many people are surprised when they learn kids can have arthritis. Sometimes\, it’s exhausting and difficult to relate with people who don’t understand the physical and emotional rollercoaster. \nGraeme’s project involves reaching out to people with rheumatic diseases\, gathering their stories\, and producing new music based on their experiences. He hopes that sharing these stories will help others feel a little less alone. \nCynthiaCynthia project aims to encourage the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) community to share their stories of disabilities since it is often stigmatized. Additionally\, they are primarily underrepresented communities in the arthritis world. So\, she’d like to explore the factors that play into that\, such as the dynamics of immigration\, healthcare opportunities\, etc. She will begin her initial research at her university and hopefully cover her state. \nFor much of her diagnosis\, Cynthia never opened up about her condition\, but as she grows older\, she’s more open to sharing her story and experiences. She wishes to explore her identity as a member of the APIDA community as well as a chronically ill patient and hopes to elevate the voices of those like her. \nThank you to our incredible sponsors + community partners! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/2024flpshowcase/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Future Leaders Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/flp-e1715698122251.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240526 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240527 DTSTAMP:20240621T181431Z CREATED:20240305T034122Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240621T181431Z UID:13177-1716681600-1716767999@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Team C+F Calgary Run/Walk DESCRIPTION:Team Cassie + Friends Calgary Run/Walk\nRegister Here! \nProudly partnered with: \n \nWe invite all of our Calgary area families to join us at the Servus Calgary Marathon & Charity Challenge in-person event on Sunday\, May 26th or in the virtual run from May 26th- June 23rd. We’re looking forward to meeting\, connecting\, and making memories with you and other families at the event as we run/walk for kids affected by juvenile arthritis. You can register here! \nEven better\, this year we are very excited to announce that your fundraising will be even further amplified as Cassie + Friends has been named as a 2024 charity partner of the Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink. Birdies for Kids is a non-profit program under the Calgary Shaw Charity Classic Foundation\, and is an AMAZING way for charities like ours to supercharge our efforts to raise new support for our community and qualify for matching funds up to 50%!!! Please email aren@casseiandfriends.ca if you would like to learn more about this program and how you can share this incredible news with your supporters! \nFor those who cannot make the in-person run\, we are pleased to let you know about the virtual run which allows you to run/walk anywhere and anytime between May 26th- June 23rd\, 2024. Run once\, twice\, or as many times as you’d like\, or choose to exercise your way (bike\, swim\, hike\, etc.). \nOur goal is to make your participation as easy as possible! If you are part of a company\, team\, or group that would like to get involved\, OR if you have any questions at all\, please contact at info@cassieandfriends.ca \n0Runners in 20230Donations Received 0Dollars Raised in 20230Goal: A pain-free future for kids!About this year’s virtual run/walk:\n\nSelect your distance to complete 5K\, 10K\, Half Marathon\, Marathon\, 60K (NEW!) or the Kids Marathon (1.2K)\nJoin us for the in-person event on Sunday\, May 26th or complete the run anytime and anywhere between May 26th- June 23rd\, 2024.\nCharity prizes for top fundraising are available – let’s not lose our streak as a top team\nReceive a Calgary Marathon running shirt and medal with registration and a Team C+F technical running shirt when you raise $50 or more\n\nIn 2020\, Team Cassie + Friends won the first place prize for Top Fundraising Charity in the Calgary Marathon and in 2021 we were the team with the highest amount of fundraisers! Thank you for your support. \nHow to RegisterGet #YourFirst5Youth Run AmbassadorsHow to Register\nWe’ve created videos to help you get through the registration process. Click here to learn how to sign up for Team Cassie + Friends! \n\nClick here to register!\nSelect your distance or click “register” on the right handside of the Race Roster page.\nSelect your distance and create or sign into your Race Roster Account\nFill in the required information\nWhen you get to “Teams” it will ask “Add registrant to a team?” Click “Yes\, add this registrant to a corporate or charity team created by someone else”\nUnder “Teams Category” choose “Fundraising Team-Charity Challenge”\nSearch and select “Cassie and Friends.” Fill out the rest of the information and proceed to payment\nOnce submitted\, log in to your Race Roster account to customize your fundraising page by adding a photo and sharing your story!\n\nQuestions? Please email info@cassieandfriends.ca \nGet #YourFirst5\nKick start your fundraising with #YourFirst5  \nTeam Cassie + Friends challenges you to get at least 5 donations towards your fundraising page. And when you get 5\, you’ll automatically be entered to win fun prizes! Not sure how to get your first 5 donations\, start by making a donation to yourself\, then ask a friend (or two)\, a family member\, gym buddy and a coworker/classmate! \n\nMake a donation to yourself – It all starts with you! Be proud of yourself for stepping up for kids and kick things off with a donation to your fundraising page.\nA donation towards research for safer and more effective treatments\nA donation towards support programs so families can feel less alone on their journey.\nA donation towards virtual education\, our expert-led information sessions educating families across Canada\nA donation towards connection\, so families have a shoulder to lean on.\n\nTry sending this to a friend: \nHi ______\, \nI am so excited to let you know that this year I am stepping up for kids and families across Canada affected by juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Juvenile arthritis is an incurable autoimmune disease in kids that attacks healthy joints and steals childhoods. Kids with JA live with pain\, fatigue and fevers\, and many require aggressive medications like chemotherapy. \nThis year I am running with Team Cassie + Friends to fundraise for juvenile arthritis research and family support programs so that kids can have the pain-free futures they deserve. If you are able to make a donation in support of my run/walk\, please click the link below. \n[Add your fundraising link here]\nThank you for supporting me and the 24\,000 kids in Canada affected by juvenile arthritis. \n[Name]\nYouth Run Ambassadors\nTeam C+F Youth Ambassador Program \nAre you a youth who lives with or is impacted by Juvenile Arthritis\, Lupus\, Dermatomyositis\, Fever Syndrome or other rheumatic disease? Want to help raise funds and awareness for juvenile arthritis at your school or amongst your sports team? Learn more about hosting a kids fun run at your school and how to earn free kids registration with our 2023 Youth Run Ambassador Program. \nWhat’s in it for you? \n\nReceive one free kids registration to an official Team C+F run/walk when you pledge to raise $50 or more. Official Virtual and In-Person Team Cassie + Friends run/walk events include: Vancouver\, Calgary\, Halifax\, Hamilton\, Toronto and Ottawa.\nReceive a Team C+F Fun Run Package including sidewalk chalk and Cassie + Friends coloured ribbons to host your at-school fun run event\nReceive a Team Cassie + Friends Technical Running Shirt\nFun prizes when you reach fundraising milestones\n\nRaise $50\, receive a Team C+F baseball cap\nRaise $500\, a cupcake party for your class or sports team\n\n\nThe opportunity to apply for the 2023 Youth Leader Award and your chance at a $500 prize. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/calgaryrunwalk/ CATEGORIES:Alberta,Calgary,Team C+F Run/Walks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/calgary.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240505 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240506 DTSTAMP:20240613T180146Z CREATED:20240412T171823Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180146Z UID:13572-1714867200-1714953599@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Scoring Goals for Juvenile Arthritis DESCRIPTION:Scoring Goals for Juvenile Arthritis Get ready to lace up your skates and join us for an exciting day of hockey for a great cause! We are thrilled to invite you to the FIRST-EVER Scoring Goals For Juvenile Arthritis (JA) charity hockey fundraiser presented in partnership with Scoring Goals for the Community (SGFTC). \nSince 2017\, SGFTC has been uniting hockey enthusiasts\, families\, celebrities\, and corporate teams to raise funds for causes like local food banks and autism. And now\, for the first time\, they are teaming up with us at Cassie + Friends\, to make a difference in the lives of those affected by JA. \nBut wait\, there’s more! This year’s Scoring Goals event is extra special as it coincides with our #ConnectingJA Family Day Conference in Ontario\, followed by an International Scientific Research Conference on JA. With the attendance of leading JA researchers\, healthcare teams and families\, it’s an event you won’t want to miss! \nInterested in hitting the ice? \nRaise funds and register to play in the hockey game for an unforgettable experience\, complete with your very own professional NHL-style jersey\, hockey socks\, water bottle\, and more! \nPrefer to be a fan in the stands? \nGrab your tickets to cheer loud at the game and join us in rallying support for families affected by JA! \nRegister to Play or Reserve Your Seats in the Stands TODAY! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/scoringgoals/ LOCATION:Aurora Community Centre CATEGORIES:Family Day ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/agk-e1712941969526.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240505 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240506 DTSTAMP:20240613T180209Z CREATED:20240126T235820Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180209Z UID:12599-1714867200-1714953599@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:2024 Juvenile Arthritis Family Day Conference DESCRIPTION:Cassie + Friends’ Family Day is a FREE and absolutely life-transforming event for kids and families affected by Juvenile Arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. It’s a day filled with learning\, connecting\, and empowerment! \nFamily Day provides parents\, caregivers\, grandparents\, children\, teens and siblings with the rare opportunity to connect with people that truly understand. It is a place where you receive support from professionals and other families and learn about the latest research\, treatments and symptom management approaches. See our FAQs for more info. \nOur 2024 event\, #ConnectingJA\, is going to be absolutely amazing! We hope you’ll join us for our first-ever Family Day Conference in Ontario on Sunday\, May 5th\, 2024 at the unforgettable Kingbridge Centre in King City\, Ontario. \nRegistration closes on April 28\, 2024\, we encourage you to register early and reserve your family’s spot today. \nA limited number of Family Travel Bursaries will be available. Please reach out to marissa@cassieandfriends.ca if you need support to attend from out of town. \nRegister Today!What makes Family Day a life-changing experience?Finding out you are not alone.\nThere is simply nothing like connecting and sharing with others who understand your unique experiences and challenges. This includes young adults\, teenagers\, children\, parents and grandparents. \nYou will be empowered with knowledge.You will learn more in one day than you ever imagined. From educational sessions led by medical experts to the tips and tricks you’ll pick up from other families – there is always something new to help in your journey. Past year’s expert sessions included: Nutrition\, Anxiety and Depression\, JIA Insights and Outcomes\, Medication Decisions\, Uveitis and Pain Management. Being able to attend as a family.“Too often\, our daughter is left at home worrying about her brother when we go for medical appointments\,” says one parent who attended our event. “Being able to be a family for Family Day is a great relief to us.” We will have onsite programming for Toddlers (1-5)\, kids (6-10)\, Youth (11-15) and Teens (15+) The chance to ask questions outside of the clinic.\nThere’s not always enough time to address all of your questions/worries in the doctor’s office. Family Day offers the chance to talk with doctors\, nurses and other healthcare professionals in a relaxed setting. \nYou will make friends you can lean on in good times and bad.\nMany parents find relief and comfort in staying in touch and even texting during rough times. And kids and teens agree: “School friends can’t always understand\, but my C+F friends get me.” \nFamily Day inspires HOPE.\nHearing from our panel of young adults is a highlight of the day. You will see that your child and family will not only survive their diagnosis\, but enjoy a rich and fulfilling life even with the challenges of rheumatic disease. \nIt’s FUN!\nFamily Day is as much for the kids as the parents. While you attend workshops about treatments\, research and other challenges\, your kids and teens will be having fun with their siblings and new friends. Teens will also get the chance to hear from and ask questions of young adults with rheumatic diseases on topics like school\, work\, relationships and other issues of importance to being a teen with rheumatic disease. \nClick here to visit our full 2024 Family Day Webpage“I remember when she was first diagnosed and we went to our first family day in Vancouver. She had just turned two and Cassie had gotten up to talk (and even did a little dance move). I vividly remember the sort of relief I felt in that moment. It’s actually the moment I remember most from that day in 2019. I grew up dancing and when she got the diagnosis I remember thinking ‘will she ever dance?’ and Cassie just brought this reassurance to me that it was indeed possible."\n– From a JA Parent \nCheck out some clips from our past Family Days URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/familyday/ LOCATION:The Kingbridge Centre\, 12750 Jane St\, King City\, Ontario\, L7B 1A3\, Canada CATEGORIES:Family Day END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240409T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240409T180000 DTSTAMP:20240613T180249Z CREATED:20240208T231538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180249Z UID:13003-1712680200-1712685600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Beyond Transition: Advocating for Your Rheumatic Disease Needs in the Workplace DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with the Institute of Work and Health\, JIA Transition Clinic at Women’s College Hospital\, Toronto and young adults with lived experience\, we are excited to host a discussion that extends Beyond Transition and the doctor’s office\, focusing on advocating for health needs in the workplace. \nYou’ll get to hear from an inspiring youth speaker\, previously employed by a major tech company\, who will share her own personal experiences with first jobs\, new careers\, and easing into adulthood. \nYou’ll also get to hear from: \n\nTransition to Adult Care team at Women’s College Hospital\, SickKids about the importance of preparing to enter the workforce as a part of transition to adult care preparation\nArif Jetha\, Associate Scientific Director and Scientist\, Institute of Work and Health\nSaneliso Moyo\, Labour Lawyer\, who will help you to get to “Know Your Workplace Rights”\n\nWhether you’re a youth\, young adult or parent to a child approaching/navigating teen years – this is a session you won’t want to miss! \nAs always\, bring your questions for our LIVE Q+A. \nSee you there! \nRegister Today!Meet the SpeakersArif Jetha – Associate Scientific Director and Scientist\, Institute of Work and Health \nArif’s program of research aims to understand how sociopolitical\, technological\, environmental and economic changes that characterize the future of work affect the health and employment participation of vulnerable workers. He is also interested in understanding how changing working conditions can shape the labour market experiences of youth and young adults living with disabilities and chronic disease at the early career phase and across the life course. \nHe collaborates closely with diverse research partners to produce findings that can inform policy and practice. Jetha is currently the recipient of the Stars Career Development Salary Award from the Arthritis Society. \nAlison Legge – Young Adult Speaker\, JIA\, Currently Working at Lego Group \nAlison is passionate about sharing her experiences growing up with juvenile idiopathic arthritis to help youth and their families living with rheumatic diseases. Born in Vancouver\, BC\, she obtained her bachelors in computer science and applied math from the university of Oregon in 2018. She returned to Vancouver for a few years before relocating to London\, England in 2021 where she now works as a Senior Data Specialist at the LEGO Group. \nIn her spare time\, Alison can be found on the golf course\, curled up on the floor reading with her dog\, Jovo\, or exploring all the London’s pub scene has to offer. \nREAD Alison’s Story Here \nAlison’s powerful story and experience navigating work with JA was recently featured in the Vancouver publication\, the Tyee.  \nSaneliso Moyo – Partner\, Goldblatt Partners LLP in Toronto \nAs a lover of story-telling\, Saneliso believes that as a litigator her job is to help her clients tell their story. Through that storytelling\, she helps unions and workers to enforce their rights and make change! \nA fierce advocate for racial and gender equity\, the law is Saneliso’s tool of choice in the fight to advance social justice. Saneliso enjoys providing advice and developing creative solutions to issues facing her union clients in all aspects of labour relations. Whether in bargaining\, mediation or arbitration\, she takes great care to listen to her clients\, understand their needs and goals\, and to craft a plan to meaningfully address them. \nSaneliso represents both public and private sector unions across a wide range of industries and enjoys the challenge of learning about the complexities of each workplace. Her clients have included education workers\, teachers\, faculty members\, performers\, health care and transit workers. \nDr. Natasha Gakhal and Dr. Evelyn Rozenblyum – JIA Transition Clinic Team \nPediatric Rheumatologist\, Dr Evelyn Rozenblyum and Adult Rheumatologist\, Dr Natasha Gakhal make up the Juvenile Arthritis Transition Clinic at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto – an innovative model of care where pediatric\, adult and allied health practitioners see and manage young adults with juvenile arthritis to improve medical and psychosocial outcomes for the community. This is their fourth year collaborating with Cassie + Friends to deliver a transition-focused virtual education session for families affected from right across Canada! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/beyondtransition/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/goodtransition.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240319T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240319T180000 DTSTAMP:20240613T180432Z CREATED:20240206T044035Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180432Z UID:12967-1710865800-1710871200@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Vital Connections: Building Strong Relationships with Your Healthcare Team DESCRIPTION:You know the saying “it’s not what you know\, it’s who you know”… connections can make all the difference. Finding a strong community of support and building healthy relationships with your child’s healthcare team are critical to successfully navigating life with JA/childhood rheumatic disease. \nIn this session\, certified family life educator and parent coach\, Lisa Greene will walk us through the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of cultivating strong relationships with your pediatric rheumatology team. You’ll also hear from JA Mom\, Brittany Dieroff\, who will share how her daughter’s healthcare team supported her in making tough treatment decisions and why she was inspired to get more involved with the Cassie + Friends community locally. \nJoin this session for the opportunity to: \n\nMeet other families in our community\nHear directly from a parent speaker sharing her family’s experience navigating JA and how they worked alongside their care team to set their daughter up for success\nLearn how to build and improve relationships and advocate for your family with your healthcare team\n\nAnd\, don’t forget to bring your questions for the live Q+A! \nRegister Today!Meet Our SpeakersLisa Greene\, Certified Family Life Educator & Parent Coach\, Author \nLisa is a certified family life educator\, certified parent coach and (most importantly) MOM! And\, as a parent of two children living with chronic illness\, Lisa knows the challenges parents and caregivers may face. \nSince 2004\, she has worked with Foster Cline MD\, a well-known child psychiatrist and co-founder of the popular Love and Logic parenting program. Together\, they have created several new Love and Logic resources including the award-winning book Parenting Children with Health Issues and the DVD Parenting Children with Special Medical Needs: Love and Logic Tools for Raising Resilient Kids. Lisa presents workshops to hospitals and non-profit organizations throughout North America and through her sessions\, parents walk away with a lighter step and simple\, practical parenting tools. Lisa’s message is: “You can do it!” \nBrittany Dieroff\, JA Parent | Edmonton\, AB \nMeet Brittany Dieroff\, a mom whose journey into the world of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) began with the diagnosis of her daughter at just 18 months old. Despite her background as a Respiratory Therapist\, Brittany found herself navigating unfamiliar territory\, working to understand the nuances of this challenging disease. Over the last few years\, with the help of Cassie + Friends\, she has gained valuable insights that have reshaped her perspective both personally and professionally. As a Parent Ambassador for Cassie + Friends in Edmonton\, she is committed to raising awareness and support for those affected by juvenile arthritis. \nJoining our Q+A Panel:Heather Ross\, Pediatric Nurse | McMaster Children’s Hospital\, Hamilton ON \nHeather Ross is a dedicated pediatric nurse at McMaster Children’s Hospital. She has 16 years of experience working with the pediatric population. And joined the Rheumatology team at McMaster Children’s Hospital in February of 2023. She is passionate about providing compassionate care to young patients with rheumatic diseases and ensuring their comfort and well-being throughout their journey. \nVictoria Molnar\, Registered Social Worker | Glenrose Rehabilitation (Stollery Children’s Hospital)\, Edmonton\, AB \nVictoria has been working with a multi-disciplinary team in Pediatric Rheumatology\, Brain Injury and SROP clinic at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital in Edmonton\, AB for 8 years. She has supported families as a Social worker for 19 yrs with Alberta Health Services. \nVictoria is a mom of 2 girls and serves in many volunteer positions to better lives in her community. She has a heart for helping grieving families and on mission to advocate for connections to help support them. \nDon’t forget to join our Juvenile Arthritis Canada Facebook Group to continue to connect with parents\, caregivers and community members after the session. \nYou are never alone\, Join our Online Support Network today! \nJA Canada Facebook Group URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/vitalconnections/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Vital-Connections-Banner-VES-COMMS-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240215T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20240215T170000 DTSTAMP:20240613T180509Z CREATED:20240111T183521Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180509Z UID:12752-1708012800-1708016400@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Cocoa Connect Night: A Youth Mentorship Event DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our first Cocoa & Connection Night!\nIt can feel isolating to be a youth with JIA\, Lupus or any other rheumatic disease. At times\, it can be difficult to relate to your peers\, and it’s easy to feel misunderstood.  \nThat’s why we’re hosting a Cocoa & Connection Event\, on February 15th\, from 4-5 pm PST. \nPart of our Youth Mentorship program\, we hope you’ll join us for a chance to get to know other youth in our community\, including our very own mentors – over a cup of  hot chocolate. \nThis is a pressure-free way to get comfy\, and get connected to youth who know what you are going through.  \nRegister Today! \nGround Rules: \n\nBe respectful. Inappropriate language or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated and will result in your removal from the event.\nKeep the information shared by mentees\, mentors and staff confidential (i.e. diagnosis\, medical history etc.).\nMust be a teen or young adults with pediatric rheumatic diseases ages 13-22 URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/cocoaconnectnight/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Youth Leader Network,Youth Mentorship Program ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Untitled-design-2-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20231024T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20231024T183000 DTSTAMP:20240613T180542Z CREATED:20230906T182234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T180542Z UID:11981-1698165000-1698172200@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:How to Gym with JA and Other Rheumatic Diseases: Work Out Techniques\, Modifications and More! DESCRIPTION:Register today!\nAre you a teen or young adult wondering if having a childhood rheumatic disease means you should modify your gym routine and how? Or maybe you’re a parent whose teen is getting ready to start working out and looking for proper techniques? \nExercise has many benefits associated with overall rheumatic disease management (including for your mental health)\, and in October\, we will be hosting a special session focused on how to do it safely! \nNo workout experience necessary. Whether you’re looking for encouragement to just get started or have questions about supplements and overall JA impacts\, managing pain\, and what the latest research on ‘juvenile arthritis and exercise’ is revealing\, our ‘How to Gym With JA and Other Rheumatic Diseases’ webinar is here to connect you with the information you need to workout confidently. \nJoin our experts\, Dr. Kristin Houghton\, Pediatric Rheumatologist\, alongside Dr. Astrid DeSouza\, Pediatric Exercise Physiologist and Dr. Lori Tucker\, Pediatric Rheumatologist from BC Children’s Hospital\, as they share trusted information\, helpful tips\, and answer questions during our live Q+A. \nSession Speakers:\nDr. Kristin Houghton | Pediatric Rheumatologist and Sports Medicine Specialist\, BC Children’s Hospital \nKristin is a pediatric rheumatologist and sports medicine specialist at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. She is actively involved in education and research. She is Vice Chair of the Rheumatology Subspecialty Committee and serves on the Royal College exam board. \nHer research interests include physical activity and exercise in children with chronic illness. She is involved in advocacy and health promotion and served two terms on the Canadian Pediatric Society’s Healthy Active Living and Sports Medicine committee. \nKristin enjoys working with athletes and has volunteered as team doctor for the Canadian National and Under-20 women’s soccer teams and volunteer physician at the 2010 Paralympics. Currently she coaches her 12 year old son’s soccer team. \nAstrid De Souza | ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist\, BC Children’s Hospital \nAstrid De Souza is an ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist who graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology. She has worked in the Children’s Heart Centre at BC Children’s Hospital since 2006 and has also worked in the Healthy Heart Program at St. Paul’s from 2007-2016. \nShe is involved in exercise testing\, exercise prescription and rehabilitation in\nchildren with chronic diseases. She continues to work on innovative ways to provide rehabilitation services to children\, largely focused on technology such as text messaging\, virtual platforms and virtual\nreality. Astrid is passionate about teaching patients and their families about the benefits of physical activity and how it can be used as tool to improve outcomes and quality of life. \nShe continues to work to translate her knowledge to patients\, the allied health team and the physicians who are all working towards the common goal of advancing the care for children with chronic diseases. \nDr. Lori Tucker | Pediatric Rheumatologist\, BC Children’s Hospital \nDr. Lori Tucker is a Clinical Professor in Pediatrics\, and Division Head\, Division of Pediatric Rheumatology\, BC Children’s Hospital and University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on physical activity in children and youth with JIA\, development of shared decision-making in pediatric rheumatology care\, and autoinflammatory diseases in children. \nShe is one of the founding members of the Canadian Alliance of Pediatric Rheumatology Investigators. In addition\, she is a passionate advocate for kids with rheumatic diseases and their families\, provincially and nationally and as a member of the Cassie + Friends Board \nRyan Dekker | Youth Speaker\, BC \nRyan was diagnosed with JA at age 14\, and faced symptoms as early as age 11. Though this diagnosis was quite a shock for someone who had grown up playing sports and staying active\, he was determined to return to working out and the football field. \nAfter high school and some time playing junior football in the CJFL\, Ryan pursued a career in finance and remains focused on his physical health. Away from the office\, he continues to challenge himself in half marathons with team Cassie and Friends and he most recently completed the Whistler Gran Fondo. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/how-to-gym-with-ja-from-the-experts/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Untitled-design-6.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230914T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230914T183000 DTSTAMP:20230906T205806Z CREATED:20230707T174436Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230906T205806Z UID:11525-1694709000-1694716200@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Webinar: Gearing Up For Back To School DESCRIPTION:Register today!\n\nSchool is back in session which means families affected by juvenile arthritis and other childhood rheumatic diseases are looking to learn how to best set up their child or teen up for success in the classroom: \n\n\n\nHow do I explain JA to educators\, coaches and the administration?\nWhat about missed classes due to medical appointments\, flares\, and medication side effects?\nHow should my child advocate for themselves when I’m not there?\nWhat about backpacks\, pen grips and other supports?\nHow can we reduce the weight load of textbooks\, school supplies and other items that leave my child aching?\n\n\n\n\nCassie + Friends is here to connect you with the answers you need! \n\n\n\nRegister for our upcoming Back-to-School webinar where we’ll work together to create a personalized ‘School Action Plan’ alongside an Occupational Therapist\, Physiotherapist\, School Principal & JA Parent! We guarantee you’ll leave this session feeling confident and fully equipped to tackle back to school this fall. As always\, bring your questions for our live Q+A! \n\n\nRegister today! We are pleased to offer this session live in both English and French! \n\n\n\n\nLooking for links to our Top 5 Tips for Back-to-School?\nFind them here! \n\n\nSession Speakers:\nSarah James | Occupational Therapist\, BC Children’s Hospital \nSarah is an occupational therapist currently working at BC Children’s Hospital Rheumatology clinic. She completed her PhD in 2014 at the University of Queensland in Brisbane\, Australia and moved to Canada in 2017 where she began working at BC Children’s Hospital. She has worked across a range of research and clinical areas\, and is passionate about supporting children and their families to work towards their individual goals. \nColleen Castonguay | Parent Speaker and School Principal\, Vancouver BC \nColleen\, her husband\, Lance and their two children\, Cole and Caden live in the Lower Mainland. Colleen is the principal of an elementary school. Caden was diagnosed with JIA when she was 3 years old. They have attended the annual Cassie + Friends Family Days regularly. Caden\, now almost 16 years old\, has developed some creative coping strategies over the years. She has found a variety of ways to manage difficult times and she has become more independent with her treatment. The Castonguay’s are an active family spending as much time as possible outdoors\, biking\, paddling and with their dog Nahanni. \nJo-Anne Marcuz | Physiotherapist\, SickKids \nJo-Anne Marcuz has been a registered physiotherapist since 2003 and has been working with the Rheumatology Division at SickKids since 2005. She enjoys working as part of an interdisciplinary team in striving to help patients achieve their optimal state of wellbeing and participation in the activities they love. Jo-Anne compliments her work at SickKids with teaching at the University of Toronto\, Department of Physical Therapy. She has also been fortunate to be involved in many research projects over the years. When not at work\, Jo-Anne adores her time with family. \nHeather Best | Occupational Therapist\, Mary Pack \nHeather is an Occupational Therapist currently working at the Mary Pack Arthritis Program in\nVancouver. She has 25 years of experience working with patients with rheumatic disease across many\ndifferent age groups. She worked as an OT in the pediatric rheumatology program at BC Children’s\nHospital for 10 of those years. Her current role includes supporting patients seen in the YARD program\nwhich is a clinic for patients transitioning from pediatric care to navigating adult care and post secondary\nchallenges and adventures. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/gearing-up-for-back-to-school/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/School@cas.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230513T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230513T130000 DTSTAMP:20230512T204700Z CREATED:20230329T230158Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230512T204700Z UID:10765-1683975600-1683982800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Cassie + Friends Presents The Future Leaders Showcase DESCRIPTION:Register Today!\nGet ready to witness an inspiring display of passion\, leadership and hard work at the C+F Future Leaders Showcase – the highly-anticipated finale of the 2022-23 Youth Ambassador program cohort. \nIn 2022\, six exceptional youth/young adults joined the C+F Youth Ambassador Program with their own innovative project ideas aimed at strengthening the juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases community. After a year of dedicated effort\, our Ambassadors have not only sharpened their skills but have also engaged with the community and are now eager to present their progress to you! \nJoin us to hear from community and medical partners about the importance of cultivating future leaders and the impact they can have on our communities. And\, of course\, our Youth Ambassadors will take the stage to showcase their special projects and discuss their next steps. As our esteemed panel of judges provides them with valuable feedback and suggestions\, the stage will be set for selecting the “2023 C+F Youth Ambassador of the Year”! \nLet’s come together to celebrate our Future Leaders and their unwavering passion for the juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic disease community. We can’t wait to see you there. Register here. \nGet to Know our 2022/23 Future Leaders:Sophie FinnChelsea WoolfMatthew SholdiceCiara MahaffyMaryse HendiAlejandra Van DusenSophie Finn\n \nMeet Sophie Finn! \nSophie is a grade 12 student living in Langley\, BC\, and was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) – a rare rheumatic disease – in 2017. \nSophie enjoys being engaged in her community; in addition to being a 2022/23 C+F Youth Ambassador\, she also serves as president of her high school’s graduation committee\, is on two leadership committees\, and coaches kids’ soccer (Sophie herself has 10 years of soccer experience under her belt). Sophie is currently working on her university applications and plans to study business or political science which she feels are aligned with her desire to both continue learning and serve as a leader in her community. \nHer work within the Youth Ambassador Program: \nSophie’s project will involve creating resources and tools for newly diagnosed families specifically in the area of preparing for treatment and medication. A component of this work includes organizing a Newly Diagnosed Webinar for spring 2023 alongside medical professionals\, parent/patient leaders and C+F staff. Keep an eye out for session details coming soon! \nSophie hopes her project will positively impact newly diagnosed families and help them to gain the skills and knowledge to prepare for what was the scariest time in her own medical journey. She is grateful for the opportunity to share her story! \nChelsea Woolf\n \nMeet Chelsea Woolf! \nChelsea has a love for medicine and is devoted to learning more about why and how the body works the way it does. \nChelsea was born in Calgary\, Alberta\, and currently lives in Edmonton where she works as a paramedic. She has also served as a medic in the energy sector and completed firefighter training this past June. She is passionate about supporting people through their healthcare journey and advocating for resources to empower everyone to access the knowledge they need to live healthy lives. Outside of work\, Chelsea loves to ski and sing! \nChelsea became involved with Cassie + Friends when she was 18 when she joined a research group studying the experience of transiting from pediatric to adult rheumatology care. She also presented her story as a youth panelist at the 2021 C+F Virtual Transition Fair. \nHer work within the Youth Ambassador Program: \nUpon reflecting on her experience as a child navigating JA\, Chelsea realized there was a lack of kid-friend information and resources that could help her understand her diagnosis and what was happening inside her body. She remembers going to rheumatology appointments\, eye doctors\, and physical therapists and getting bloodwork done but never understanding why. While talking to her Dad about the opportunity to submit a project idea to the C+F Youth Ambassador program\, he mentioned that he also found it difficult to explain ger JA and the medication world that she now belonged to her as a child which in turn caused stressed and anxiety for the whole family. \nTo fill this gap\, Chelsea project aims to equip parents and kids with a tool that explains the JA journey in an age-appropriate way and enables them to prepare for what is yet to come. Chelsea hopes this book will become widely available for children throughout Canada upon diagnosis and will lead to more books on other rheumatic diseases. \nThe most important part of the project for Chelsea is emphasizing to children that chronic does not mean incapable – her vision is for the book to carry an optimistic voice that both empowers and educates. \nMatthew Sholdice\nMeet Matthew Sholdice! \nMatthew was born and raised in London\, Ontario\, and currently attends McMaster University in Hamilton\, where he studies Health Sciences. Matthew enjoys staying active and watching Netflix when not in school or working. Matthew is a black belt in goju ryu karate and has played volleyball\, hockey\, and soccer! \nHe is a committed advocate for the childhood rheumatic disease community and an active volunteer in both youth-focused and research initiatives. His career goal: to become a rheumatologist and complement his practice with his own lived experience. In the meantime\, he is passionate about creating resources that extend beyond treatment and medication outside of the doctor’s office (i.e. nutrition and yoga classes). \nMatthew first got involved with the community as a camper and then counselor at camp Cambria (later Camp Ontario)\, a camp for kids ages 8-17 diagnosed with rheumatic disease\, where he has also formed lifelong friendships. Matthew also works for The Take a Pain Check Foundation as an outreach coordinator. \nMatthew initially became involved with Cassie + Friends when his rheumatologist passed along a survey from the organization asking for feedback on what makes a good mentorship program. This further fueled his already existing interest in their organization and led him to reach out. Since then\, he’s participated in several youth-focused sessions and share his own story on the C+F website (which you can read here and includes his own thoughts on transitioning to adult care). Now\, Matthew is acting as a Youth Ambassador for Cassie + Friends and getting the chance to create his own project. \nHis work within the Youth Ambassador Program: \nMatthew’s project was inspired by his time volunteering for a program called Project Thrive in Ontario. Project Thrive worked with newly diagnosed families and organized events where they could learn from and connect with other families. Parents had the opportunity to chat with healthcare professionals and\, at the same time\, the kids participated in an activity aimed at learning life skills specific and vital to rheumatic diseases. Unfortunately\, despite the adults saying how valuable this program was\, the program is no longer available. \nMatthew hopes to carry this torch and continue the work with his own spin and experiences; therefore his project is to create a similar event that gives newly diagnosed families the opportunity to join the community and learn about rheumatic diseases. \nIf you live in Ontario\, keep an eye out for event information related to Matthew’s project! \nCiara Mahaffy\n \nMeet Ciara Mahaffy! \nCiara is an ambitious and proactive member of her community – wherever that might be and whatever that might require! Ciara lives in Vancouver\, BC\, and is currently studying in Toronto at the University of Toronto. Some of Ciara’s main interests include acting\, English literature\, dancing\, and singing. \nCiara is completing two majors\, one in English literature and one in dramatic literature. She is also working on a minor in creative expression and society. While attending university\, Ciara has become deeply ingrained in her campus community. She is a co-president of the Trinity College Dramatic Society\, a choreographer for a UofT dance club\, a dramaturg for a production with the UofT college St. Mikes\, and a member of the intramurals ultimate frisbee team. Ciara is also a mentor for a specialized first-year program and was an orientation leader for incoming freshmen. In addition\, this year\, she started a new club at UofT directly connected to her Youth Ambassador project! \nCiara was first introduced to Cassie + Friends when she was initially diagnosed but did not become directly involved until 2020. Ciara started by joining their Teen Arthritis + Autoinflammatory Groups (TAG) and attending their virtual education sessions. In 2022\, Ciara also worked as a summer student at Cassie + Friends and organized several projects and fundraisers include the Team C+F Runs and BC Raffle. You can read more about Ciara here. \nHer work within the Youth Ambassador Program: \nCiara’s project aims to raise awareness about the lack of understanding JA when it comes to peers and educators. When assessing her university community at-large\, she noticed that this lack of empathy for those with rheumatic diseases and other chronic illnesses and/or disabilities is far too common. Ciara strongly believes this comes from a lack of knowledge of rheumatic diseases and how they affect the individual rather than a lack of general empathy and kindness. Ciara proposed that if her peers had more knowledge of rheumatic diseases\, they would be better equipped to support those with a rheumatic disease\, like herself. \nTo address this concern\, Ciara’s project aims to make the campus more inclusive and supportive by establishing a student club called the UofT Rheumatic Disease Awareness and Action Organization. The club will provide education and connection opportunities for the campus\, allowing them to learn more about rheumatic disease\, as well as give those living with rheumatic disease the chance to interact with each other. The club will also organize fundraisers in support of Cassie + Friends. \nCiara envisions that project will raise awareness and understanding of invisible/less visible struggles and credits Cassie + Friends as a source that helped her understand more about her disease. She hopes she can do the same for her new community! \nMaryse Hendi\n \nMeet Maryse Hendi! \nMaryse loves to do fiber art like crocheting and needle felting – enjoying the meticulous nature of making 3D art! As a student\, she is currently attending the University of Calgary (UofC)\, majoring in sociology and minoring in health and society. Her choice of study is largely rooted in her own diagnosis and experiences within healthcare. \nMaryse has had many ups and many downs throughout her medical journey and is passionate about contributing to solutions that better overall experiences for everyone. She is enthusiastic about sharing her story of navigating Lupus in hopes that it can help others. Although unsure of her future career\, she generally hopes to have a career where she can positively impact the lives of young children dealing with illness. \nMaryse is already starting to help people where she can. She is the president of The Invisible Disability Education and Advocacy Association (IDEAA) at the U of C\, which supports awareness of invisible disabilities. The club promotes education and advocacy for all invisible disabilities and has raised funds for various organizations. The club’s goal is to encourage open conversations about invisible disabilities and their impact. \nAnother way she is helping her community is through Cassie + Friends. In 2020\, by coincidence\, Maryse connected with a Cassie + Friends employee at an event who encouraged her to join the community. Since then\, Maryse has been involved with various programs\, volunteered for events and runs\, and provided two blog posts. Learn more about Maryse here and here. \nMore recently\, Maryse attended the C+F Youth Vision Session event\, where individuals were invited to discuss solutions to positively transform the lives of youths with rheumatic diseases. Maryse mentioned during the event that it would be valuable to have a place that compiled information for pediatric lupus. Later that year\, Maryse applied for the Youth Ambassador program using that same project idea\, and got into the program! \nHer work with the Youth Ambassador Program: \nMaryse’s project is a continuation of this initial brainstorming idea and is based on her experiences trying to find credible pediatric lupus information to little or no avail. As a child diagnosed with lupus\, Maryse remembers her and her parents being overwhelmed with how easy it was to end up on a website with scary or unreliable sources. In addition\, the information was written for adult lupus – not childhood lupus\, leaving her feeling in the dark. \nTo address this gap\, Maryse wants to create a digital hub on the C+F website where families can easily find and access reliable pediatric lupus information.  Working alongside healthcare professionals\, this new resource will be medically vetted and easy to read and understand empowering both parents and kids to take control of their healthcare journey. \nAlejandra Van Dusen\nMeet Alejandra Van Dusen! \nAlejandra lives in Regina\, Saskatchewan\, where she is an active member of her community. As a student\, she attends the University of Regina and is working towards a Bachelor of Health Studies degree. Her desire to study in this area comes from her life experience in the health system\, which inspired her to pursue a career that could positively shape health systems and policies. While interested in health policy and health-related research\, she has yet to decide on her career path and is remaining flexible. \nAlejandra has recently started working part-time as a program administrator in the public sector. She is also an outreach coordinator for Take a Pain Check\, helping contact stakeholders for the foundation. In addition to her already busy schedule\, Alejandra also volunteers at a student-led community health centre. When not doing all this great work\, Alejandra loves to swim and bike ride – riding up to 60 kilometers on a nice day! She also identifies as a Taylor Swift super fan! \nAlejandra learned about Cassie + Friends through social media and was excited to join a community of young people with rheumatic diseases. Soon after\, she joined the Cassie + Friends Patient and Community Engagement Research (PaCER) program. In PaCER\, she was trained in qualitative research and got to connect with others with rheumatic diseases to perform a research project to help make a difference in the lives of people with JIA. Many participants in the PaCER program talked about their struggle to transition into adulthood with their rheumatic disease – this included the switch from pediatric to adult care\, high school to post-secondary\, entering the workforce\, navigating relationships\, and more! She also experienced this firsthand at the edge of young adulthood – a time when so much is happening all at once. \nHer work with the Youth Ambassador Program: \nThis experience sparked her project idea for the Youth Ambassador program: the creation of a multimedia (video\, graphic\, and/or written form) library that shares various resources and stories of lived experiences from those who have navigated young adulthood with a rheumatic disease. The style of the content will vary from interview/Q+A to advice columns and cover anything from university to jobs\, to love and social life. In addition\, the library will be supplemented with related research articles. \nThe central goal of this project is to provide a level of support\, mentorship\, and community connection that empowers young adulthoods to take the reins of every aspect of their lives – especially their health! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/future-leaders-showcase/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Future Leaders Program,Youth Leader Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/61256032_2706305722730679_1363923768866504704_o.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230505T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230505T183000 DTSTAMP:20240613T181503Z CREATED:20230329T233829Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T181503Z UID:10771-1683307800-1683311400@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Spin-it-Forward in Halifax this May! DESCRIPTION:Halifax friends! We are excited to announce that SpinCo Bedford is teaming up with Cassie + Friends once again to fundraise for kids! Joining is easy and the class will be fun- what better way to sweat than to help kids being treated at IWK get the support and care they need? Find more details below: \nWhat: A spin class by donation and all funds go to Cassie + Friends \nWhere: SpinCo\, Bedford location: 620 Nine Mile Dr #103b \nWhen: Friday\, May 5th at 5:30PM \nThis is how it works: \n\nVisit the SpinCo website here and scroll down to ‘spin-it-forward’ under ‘class cards’ to reserve your spot (it’s free)\nShow up with a donation ($10 minimum)\nPlease bring CASH\nCassie + Friends JIA warrior Jenna Kedy will be at the door to welcome you and collect donations\,\nYou spin for kids!\n\nNever been to a spin class before? Have any questions or concerns? No problem! Contact kelly@cassieandfriends.ca URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/spin-it-forward/ LOCATION:SpinCo Bedford\, 620 Nine Mile Dr #103b\, Bedford\, NS\, B4A 0H4 CATEGORIES:Community Fundraisers,Halifax,Maritimes ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/spinco.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230426T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230426T183000 DTSTAMP:20230425T181931Z CREATED:20210820T220858Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230425T181931Z UID:7066-1682526600-1682533800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Beyond Transition: Easing Into Young Adulthood with Childhood Rheumatic Disease DESCRIPTION:Register Now!\nIn collaboration with the JIA Transition Clinic at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto\, we are excited to host a discussion about covering the full – and bigger – picture about easing into adulthood\, beyond transition! \nThis session will touch on transition principles and practices across Canada before switching gears to learning more about concurrent life events taking place outside of the doctor’s office. Our medical and young adult speakers will join us to offer guidance on some of the most pressing – yet often shied away from – topics: \n\n\n\n\n\nHow do I navigate alcohol consumption as a young adult with JA/rheumatic disease? (presented by a medical speaker)\nHow do I prepare for life after high school? What should I consider when embarking on new journeys such as college/university\, travel\, and work? (presented by a young adult speaker)\nWhat about relationships? How do I communicate my health needs? (presented by both a young adult and medical speaker)\n\n\n\n\n\nYou’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions of all speakers during our live Q+A\, learn about new resources available to you through Cassie + Friends\, and connect with others who have experience transitioning to adult care. \nWhether you’re a newly diagnosed family\, approaching/navigating teen years or preparing your young adult to head off to a new city or new school – this is a session you won’t want to miss! \nWe’re looking forward to seeing you there! \nSession Speakers:\nDr. Natasha Gakhal and Dr. Evelyn Rozenblyum – JIA Transition Clinic Team \nPediatric Rheumatologist\, Dr Evelyn Rozenblyum and Adult Rheumatologist\, Dr Natasha Gakhal make up the Juvenile Arthritis Transition Clinic at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto – an innovative model of care where pediatric\, adult and allied health practitioners see and manage young adults with juvenile arthritis to improve medical and psychosocial outcomes for the community. This is their third year collaborating with Cassie + Friends to deliver a transition-focused virtual education session for families affected from right across Canada! \nDr. Michelle Batthish\, Division Head\, Pediatric Rheumatology\, McMaster Children’s Hospital\nCassie + Friends Research Committee Chair \nDr Michelle Batthish is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McMaster University and Head of the Division of Rheumatology at McMaster Children’s Hospital. Her research interests are in transition to adult care where she is working on improving transition readiness in youth with chronic rheumatic disease. She is currently examining the role of a Transition Coach as well as helping parents throughout the transition process. She currently lends her passion and expertise to Cassie + Friends by serving as the C+F Research Committee Chair – learn more about her work with us here. \nTrish Peters\, Youth Speaker \nTrish is an inspiring community leader and one who has already accomplished so much in her young life. Having completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce\, she is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in the Netherlands\, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to her education and personal growth. \nTrish’s unique life experiences have given her a diverse perspective\, from receiving a JA diagnosis to navigating school and friendships to life after pediatric care and now successfully immersing herself in a different country (and continent!). \nHer blog post below highlights her strength and resilience\, and she is excited to share her story with you \nDr. Andrea Wallace\, Adolescent Medicine Pediatrician and Clinical Instructor at BC Children’s Hospital \nDr. Andrea Wallace is an Adolescent Medicine Pediatrician and Clinical Instructor at BC Children’s Hospital and the University of British Columbia. She works in the Adolescent Health Clinic and the BC Children’s Provincial Eating Disorders Program\, and is the Division Lead on Transition to Adult Health. She enjoys working with youth and their families to use their own unique strengths and resources to address chronic physical and mental health conditions. She has a special interest in supporting youth with chronic illnesses and disabilities to successfully transition to adult healthcare. She is excited to be collaborating with Cassie + Friends for the first time to deliver this virtual education session! URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/teentransitionwebinar/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/teentalks2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cassie and Friends":MAILTO:brittany@cassieandfriends.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230328T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230328T183000 DTSTAMP:20230324T002148Z CREATED:20230113T225945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230324T002148Z UID:10082-1680021000-1680028200@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Newly Diagnosed: The First 12 Months DESCRIPTION:Having your child diagnosed with a chronic\, unfamiliar rheumatic disease can be overwhelming\, confusing and scary. The good news is – you are not alone! \nOn Tuesday\, March 28th\, you will have the chance to walk and talk your way through what to expect in the first 12 months after diagnosis alongside other families who are in the same stage of learning about and coming to terms with their child’s condition. \nGuided by Dr. Nadia Luca\, Pediatric Rheumatologist at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario\, you’ll get the chance to discuss topics such as medications/injections\, communicating your child’s needs at school\, and what support you can expect to receive from your pediatric rheumatology team. \nYou’ll also hear from a parent and youth speaker about the importance of finding a support system and tips they’ve learned along the way to help themselves and their family cope\, and even thrive\, within their new reality. \nAs always\, this session will be offered live in both English and French! Bring your question for our live Q+A! \nRegistration Now Open!\nSession Speakers:\nDr. Nadia Luca\, Pediatric Rheumatologist\, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario \nDr. Luca is a Pediatric Rheumatologist at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) and recently made the move from Alberta Children’s Hospital. Completing her medical degree in 2006\, Dr. Luca went on to pediatric residency and fellowship in pediatric rheumatology at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. She also holds an MSc in Health Services Research and Clinical Epidemiology\, and is an active mentor and lecturer to students and residents. Currently\, she serves as the vice-chair of the Pediatrics Executive Committee for the Canadian Rheumatology Association. \nIn addition to being a recurring speaker within the Virtual Education Series\, Dr. Luca also sits on our medical advisory committee. \nAbby Leschyson\, Parent Speaker\, Winnipeg\, MB \nOver the past 12 months\, Abby\, her daughter Rosalie\, and their whole family have experienced major change. In 2022\, at age 6 Rosalie was diagnosed with JA. Together they have had to learn to expect the unexpected – such as medication fit\, side-effects and needle fears – while also learning the importance of finding a community of support and getting involved. Abby hopes that by sharing her family’s story\, she can raise awareness about juvenile arthritis and let other families know that they are not alone in their journey with JA and other childhood rheumatic diseases. Read Abby and Rosalie’s full story here. \nSophie Finn\, Youth Speaker\, Langley\, BC \nSophie is a grade 12 student living in Langley\, BC\, and was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) – a rare rheumatic disease – in 2017. She enjoys being engaged in her community; in addition to being a 2022/23 C+F Youth Ambassador\, she also serves as president of her high school’s graduation committee\, is on two leadership committees\, and coaches kids’ soccer (Sophie herself has 10 years of soccer experience under her belt). Sophie is currently working on her university applications and plans to study business or political science which she feels are aligned with her desire to both continue learning and serve as a leader in her community. Read Sophie’s full story here. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/newly-diagnosed/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-design-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230228T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20230228T183000 DTSTAMP:20230209T170930Z CREATED:20230113T222838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230209T170930Z UID:10071-1677601800-1677609000@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:RareTalks: Genetics and Childhood Rheumatic Diseases DESCRIPTION:Ever wondered about the role of genetics in your child’s rheumatic disease? Have questions you’ve been wanting to ask an expert in the field? Interested in meeting other families\, including those navigating more rare rheumatic conditions\, like Behcet’s\, DADA2\, Fever Syndromes\, JDM and more? \nJoin us February 28th (Rare Disease Day!) for an informative presentation and Q+A with Dr. Ashish Marwaha\, a Clinic Medical Geneticist at Alberta Children’s Hospital with a special interest in pediatric rheumatology. After his overview\, you’ll have the chance to participate in disease-specific breakout rooms where you can meet and learn from other families and youth. Have a specific question for Dr. Marwaha? You can let us know during registration! \nThis session will also be interpreted live into French. \nRegistration Now Open! \nMedical Speaker: \nDr. Ashish (Ash) Marwaha is an early career clinician scientist and clinical medical geneticist focusing on complex immune dysregulation disorders. He has used a collaborative approach to build an integrated research care pathway that aims to diagnose the cause of rare diseases and lead to improved targeted treatment. His research expertise includes whole genome sequencing\, RNA sequencing\, polygenic risk score analysis\, epigenomics and machine learning integration of multi-omic data. He ultimately wants to use his extensive clinical trial experience to implement precision therapy for this patient population. \nGuest Emcee and C+F Parent Leader: \nSara Ethier has three children\, one of whom is a child with a rare autoinflammatory disease.  She discovered Cassie + Friends through the Alberta Children’s hospital in the hopes of finding support and resources to navigate the difficulties of parenting a child with a chronic and rare health issue. \nBased out of Calgary\, Sara is a member of the Canadian Systemic Autoinflammatory Patient Advisory Group (Can-SAID)\, a branch of Cassie and Friends (C+F’s).  She recognizes the need for families to find connection\, support\, and information as they deal with the unique experiences and challenges of their autoinflammatory journey.  An adjunct instructor in Communications and Liberal Arts Studies\, Sara is personally interested in the power of storytelling as part of advocacy efforts to foster more awareness and understanding of these diseases and the impact they have on children and their families.    \nC+F Parent Leader: \nLiz Devens knows all too well what it’s like to grow up with JIA- she was diagnosed at the age of seven. Years later\, her son Jason was diagnosed when he was less than two years old. Could this be genetic? Their journey of genetic testing\, the frustrations and ultimately their findings help shine a light on the the importance of genetic testing for childhood rheumatic disease. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/raretalks-genetics/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-design-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20221129T163000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20221129T183000 DTSTAMP:20221122T222620Z CREATED:20220819T182404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221122T222620Z UID:9272-1669739400-1669746600@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:What's Your Gut Telling You? JIA and the Gut Microbiome Connection DESCRIPTION:Register Today!\nDid you know that around 70% of our body’s immune cells are located in the gut? This has caused scientists to pay special attention to the 100 trillion+ microorganisms living in the gut when trying to answer every parent’s rightful question\, why did my child develop arthritis? And while research has yet to determine the exact cause of JIA (that’s the Idiopathic part)\, we do know that the microbiome plays a key role in how our immune system functions and overall health. \nSo what happens when there is a presence of undesirable microbes? Is it possible that they could trigger an immune self-targeting of the joints (i.e. arthritis)? Could disturbances to the microbiome make JIA symptoms worse? \nJoin Kelsey Thompson\, Research Associate in the Huttenhower Laboratory at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Biostatistics as she shares her research into JIA and the Gut Microbiome. You’ll hear about how she used DNA in stool samples (that’s right\, poop!) to identify potential microbial culprits in kids with JIA\, and how research into the microbiome-JIA connection may even open doors to new treatment or prevention strategies in the future. \nIn this session you’ll also learn:\n• about treatment that may allow the good microbes in the gut to come back\n• how gut microbes rapidly change with age\n• how changes in gut microbes affect both the function of the gut (i.e. decreased nutrient availability and vitamins) and inflammatory disease symptoms. \nAs always\, this session will be offered live in both English and French! Bring your question for our live Q+A! \n    Session Speakers\nKelsey Thompson\nResearch Associate @Huttenhower Laboratory at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Biostatistics\nKelsey Thompson is a Research Associate in the Huttenhower Laboratory at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Biostatistics\, and an affiliate with the Broad Institute. Kelsey has a Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology from Texas Tech University and a B.S. in Marine Science from the University of New England. Kelsey is currently focusing on the role of the gut microbiome in systemic inflammation\, in the context of inflammatory arthritis. This includes investigating communities’ taxonomy and function and the ecological dynamics of communities. She has also been involved in a myriad of other projects while with the Huttenhower group\, including the role of dietary polyphenols in gut composition\, the impact of exposure to mixtures of toxicants\, and the gut microbiome in colorectal cancer. You can learn more about Kelsey’s work here.\nCassie Porte\nYouth Speaker\n\nTune in to hear right from Cassie herself! \nCassie was diagnosed with JIA when she was just 20 months old after waking up one morning and being unable to walk. As time passed\, Cassie started to feel sick after eating certain foods and was eventually diagnosed with celiac disease. She’s excited to be speaking at our webinar to share more about her journey\, diet\, and what it was like growing up with both diagnoses.  In the meantime\, you can learn more about her experience in her recent blog post. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/gutmicrobiome/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Copy-of-JIA-and-GM-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Cassie and Friends":MAILTO:brittany@cassieandfriends.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20220913T163000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20220913T183000 DTSTAMP:20240613T181426Z CREATED:20220713T232437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T181426Z UID:9104-1663086600-1663093800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:TMJ: Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Jaw DESCRIPTION:Click here to register today!\nHave you ever wondered how arthritis and other rheumatic diseases might affect the jaw? You’re not the only one… and we’ve got the answers! \nJoin us on September 13 to hear from Pediatric Rheumatologist\, Dr. Marinka Twilt and Pediatric Physiotherapist\, Julia Brooks\, as they discuss: \n• Signs and symptoms of jaw problems and how to determine if it’s related to arthritis or a separate problem?\n• Why certain tests might be needed\n• At-home jaw exercises\n• And some tips and tricks for a healthy jaw. \nYou’ll also get to hear the first-hand experience of navigating jaw pain from youth speaker\, Emily Bessey! \nSession Speakers\nDr. Marinka TwiltPediatric Rheumatologist at Alberta Children’s Hospital\n\nMarinka Twilt trained in the Netherlands and Toronto. After working in the UK and Denmark she joined the Alberta Children’s Hospital in 2015 where she runs the Autoinflammatory Diseases clinic. \nDr. Twilt’s interests are in precision medicine for rheumatic diseases\, autoinflammatory diseases and TMJ arthritis. Dr. Twilt is active in the Childhood Arthritis Rheumatology Research Alliance autoinflammatory group and leads the development of the CARRA AID registry. Dr. Twilt is also interested in training the new young generation and is active in the Canadian Child Health Clinician Scientist program. \n\nJulia BrooksPediatric physiotherapist at the Alberta Children’s Hospital\n\nJulia is a pediatric physiotherapist at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. She received her Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation\, Physical Therapy (BMRPT) in 2003 from the University of Manitoba. She has published on subjects such as Exercise Therapy in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis\, Assessment of Joint and Muscle Bleeds\, and Standards of Care and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Persons with Hemophilia. She is currently the President of the Canadian Physiotherapists in Hemophilia Care\, and on the committee of the Canadian Bleeding Disorders Registry (CBDR)\, as well as the Parents Empowering Parents committee. \n\nEmily BesseyYouth Speaker – Patient Perspective \nEmily Bessey is a 19-year-old university student\, originally from Cole Harbour\, Nova Scotia. Emily was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis at the age of 6\, and after approximately a year of treatment\, her team discovered damage to her TMJ joints as well as the surrounding cartilage. Since then\, Emily has been followed by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team at the QEII Hospital in Halifax as well as the rheumatology departments at the IWK Health Centre and QEII Hospital. She is scheduled for jaw surgery this December. Emily is currently studying Musical Theatre and Gender Studies at St. Thomas University in Fredericton\, New Brunswick\, she is a self-described “bookworm” and also loves volunteering\, hiking and singing. You can read more about Emily’s journey with TMJ here. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/tmj/ LOCATION:Zoom CATEGORIES:Virtual Education ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/1260-x-684.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20220727T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20220727T180000 DTSTAMP:20240613T181414Z CREATED:20220714T155314Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240613T181414Z UID:9173-1658941200-1658944800@legacy.cassieandfriends.ca SUMMARY:Dance for JIA: Vancouver event and fundraiser DESCRIPTION:Register HERE!\n\n\n\nCome get your groove on with Cassie + Friends! \nWant to learn some new dance moves to bust out at your next big party\, let loose for the afternoon and have some fun? Come support kids and youth with Juvenile Arthritis and other rheumatic diseases at our dance fundraiser happening in a little over two weeks at iDance Mount Pleasant in Vancouver. \nWe will be doing a “Groove” class. This will be a largely Hip-Hop/Jazz Funk class focusing on some fun and more basic dance moves. It is BEGINNER FRIENDLY! \nWhere: iDance Mount Pleasant (257 E 7th Ave Vancouver\, BC) \nWhen: July 27th\, 2022\, at 5 pm \niDance Vancouver has graciously donated this class\, so every donation that you make will go directly to Cassie + Friends to improve the lives of kids and youth with rheumatic disease. \nThe registration cap is 40 people – so sign up quickly to reserve your spot. \nThe minimum donation is $15 ($20 recommended). Donate more than $25 and be entered to win a free drop-in class at iDance (three available)! \nThis class is designed for ALL AGES! \nAre you a child or youth with rheumatic disease who would like to attend? If the $15 donation minimum is a barrier to you\, please email Ciara at ciara@cassieandfriends.ca so that we may help you attend. We would love for you to be there! The teacher can adapt all dance moves based on your ability. \nPlease email ciara@cassieandfriends.ca with any questions. URL:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/event/dance/ LOCATION:iDance Mount Pleasant\, 257 E 7th Ave\, Vancouver\, British Columbia\, V5T 0B4\, Canada CATEGORIES:B.C.,Community Fundraisers,Vancouver ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://legacy.cassieandfriends.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/DSC_4249-1-e1657814593820.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR