We’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.
Who you’ll hear from:
- Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director: On #KidsCantWait and what we’re doing about it
- Deborah Marshall, Professor and Svare Chair, Health Economics, Value and Impact, University of Calgary: Understanding the real costs of arthritis on children and their families
- Marissa Sangers, Family Engagement Coordinator: Creating space to share and learn with all of you – the heart of our community.
We can’t wait to see you there!
All parents and caregivers are welcome.
Dr. 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.
Jennifer 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.
C+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.
