No child should face rheumatic disease alone
About Us
Parents and Caregivers
Cassie + Friends is the only charity in Canada dedicated 100% to supporting children and families affected by juvenile arthritis and other pediatric rheumatic diseases.
We bring together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and researchers to build a stronger, more connected community—so that no child has to live in pain alone.
The Challenge
Juvenile arthritis is the leading cause of chronic disability in children—yet it remains widely misunderstood and under-resourced.
• Over 25,000 kids in Canada are affected
• Awareness remains low across the country
• Access to specialists and timely care is limited
For many families, the journey is isolating, overwhelming, and filled with uncertainty.
What We Do
Research
Education
Connection
Support
By the Numbers
We don’t just raise awareness—we drive real change.
Invested
Annual
Behind every number is a child, a family, and a future we’re working to improve.
How We Started
Cassie + Friends began with one family’s experience.Clear information builds confidence for families, young people and caregivers.
After his young daughter Cassie was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis, her father set out to make a difference—starting with a single run to raise awareness and funds. What followed was an overwhelming response from the community and the beginning of something much bigger.
Today, that effort has grown into a national organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children living with rheumatic diseases.
National Reach
Supporting families across Canada
Cassie + Friends works with clinics, hospitals, researchers, and families across the country. Through partnerships and programs, we help strengthen pediatric rheumatology care and community support nationwide. In the coming days, we will add our partners to show our national reach.
Looking Ahead
We’ve made meaningful progress—but there is still more to do.
We are dedicated to supporting families across Canada
Too many children are still waiting for answers, access to care, and relief from pain. That’s why we continue to invest in research, expand programs, and build a stronger national network of support.
Because when it comes to kids living with arthritis—#KidsCantWait
Meaningful Impact
There are many ways to make a meaningful impact — and every contribution matters. Whether you’re an individual, family, or organization, you can play a role in supporting children living with rheumatic disease and the people who care for them.
• Support a family
• Join an event
• Partner with us
• Make a donation
Together, we can help ensure no child faces this journey alone.