Alana Hurov’s daughter, Katherine, was diagnosed with Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) at just two years old. Katherine’s journey, like that of many children battling rheumatic diseases, has been challenging yet marked by her remarkable resilience at such a young age.

“My daughter’s journey with JIA has not been easy,” shares Alana. “As her mother, I was in agony because I wasn’t able to take her pain away. I also didn’t know if my baby would ever walk again.”

The initial signs of JIA emerged when Katherine began limping at eighteen months old. “We initially attributed it to a minor issue,” Alana recalls. “However, her condition worsened when she stopped walking, and it became clear that this was more serious.” An evaluation led to the diagnosis of JIA affecting multiple joints in Katherine’s left leg, ankle, and foot.

Today, thanks to the dedicated care of specialists at McMaster Children’s Hospital and support from Cassie + Friends, Katherine is now in medicated remission and coping well with her treatments. However, as Alana is quick to explain, “without her weekly injectable medicine, she would be in a wheelchair. There is no cure.”

“This is my why.
Without her weekly injectable medicine, she would be in a wheelchair. There is no cure. “

Inspired by her daughter’s resilience and the support they received, Alana wanted to make a difference. After meeting other families and scientists at a Cassie + Friends’ Family Day conference, she decided to help others and speed up research into her daughter’s condition. She soon found the perfect opportunity when she founded her newest business venture, the Niagara 5000 – a luxury car show happening August 8-9, 2024 in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

As CEO of Niagara5000, Alana is channelling her passion into purpose by naming Cassie + Friends the event’s official charity, with a portion of all proceeds pledged to help fuel greater awareness and research for a cure. “This is my why,” says Alana. “Through partnerships like ours with Cassie + Friends, we aim to ensure that every child facing these diseases has access to the care and treatments they need to thrive.”

This luxury car show and community event caters to car enthusiasts, racing renegades, fashionistas, and wine lovers alike, while also offering a truly unique family-focused atmosphere. There is even a special kids’ car rally in the morning where children aged 2 to 10 can rent a “luxury” mini sports car and ride down Queen’s Street in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged!

“Katherine’s story underscores the importance of early diagnosis, specialized medical care, and ongoing support for families navigating these complex conditions,” says Executive Director of Cassie + Friends, Jennifer Wilson. “We are grateful and excited to be a part of such a meaningful event, and hope to see you there!”

For information about the event, check out Niagara5000.com. Stay tuned to their social media channels for more information, and keep an eye out for an exciting contest leading up to the event. You can learn more about the Kids Niagara 5000 Car Rally by visiting their page. Register early – spots are limited, and registration is $20 for kids bringing their own electric sports car and $35 for kids renting one on the event day. Don’t forget to stop by the Cassie + Friends booth for some fun activities!