Resources

Marissa is the Family Engagement Coordinator at Cassie + Friends Society and a parent to a child living with juvenile arthritis. This letter reflects her personal experience and the journey that led her to support other families navigating childhood-onset rheumatic disease.

A recent report by Mental Health Research Canada underscores the pressing need for improved access to mental health services for youth. Vulnerable groups, including those already managing chronic conditions, face particularly steep challenges. Among these, youth with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and other rheumatic diseases experience disproportionately high rates of anxiety, depression,…

Living with a chronic condition like a rheumatic disease can be especially challenging for young people, not only physically but also mentally. It’s no surprise that 40% of youth diagnosed with a rheumatic disease experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or panic disorders. However, a strong support system and connection with others…

n April 11, 2024, after a rigorous selection process, Cassie + Friends and Brain Canada have selected two life-transforming and innovative research projects to receive a combined total of $480,00 in funding dedicated to transforming the lives and mental wellness of children and teens impacted by juvenile arthritis and other…

Throughout my life I have been granted many titles; mom, wife, daughter, registered nurse, and writer are just a few. These are the titles that are associated with my name. I could be described as outgoing, humorous, modest, and perhaps kind too. These would be some characteristics that people from…

Meet Lily. One morning, at the young age of 2, our daughter Lily woke up limping and her left knee looked slightly swollen. She didn’t seem to show that she was in pain, but was refraining from putting weight on her left leg. We had no idea what happened and didn’t…

National Pediatric Rheumatology Mental Health Workgroup Cassie + Friends has led the formation of a new workgroup on Pediatric Rheumatology Mental Health to improve mental health care and outcomes for children with rheumatologic diseases. The goal of this Mental Health Workgroup is to develop strategies to improve research, care, and…

Working out and going to the gym helped me regain my physical ability but also my confidence, energy and overall mental wellbeing.”– Ryan Dekker, Young Adult Living with JA As someone who grew up with an active lifestyle (and plenty of energy), finding a way to stay active with JA…

“As a young adult with JIA I have experienced firsthand just how much goes on at this age. School, work, relationships, newfound independence, transition… I wanted to create resources with short pieces of patient-driven advice to help others like me navigate the constant changes of life with rheumatic disease.” Who…

“We’re very proud of our girls for showing the fortitude needed to not let these diseases define them.” Hello families! My name is Mike Wiens, husband to Jesica and father to two girls, Vanessa 24 yrs old, and Sarah 23 yrs old. We’re happy to call Port Moody, BC our…

“Feelings and emotions are real, and should be felt and openly discussed.” Meet Kaese and his mom, Jennifer. Together, they have chosen to share their story of being diagnosed with JIA and the many impacts that can have on a child and family’s mental health. To read more Cassie + Friends’…

Cassie + Friends is leading the formation of a new workgroup on Pediatric Rheumatology Mental Health to improve mental health care and outcomes for children with rheumatologic diseases. The workgroup will be led by: Together, Drs Knight and Batthish are seeking to recruit a group of experts and stakeholders to bring…