Pain in children with rheumatic disease is common. It is also frustrating, stressful, and worrisome for the child and the whole family. Pain can also be tricky – and stick around even after the inflammation caused by rheumatologic disease is felt to be well controlled.

More specifically, we will:

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Dr. Tara McGrath is a Pediatric Rheumatologist and Pediatric Pain Medicine Specialist currently working at the Stollery Children’s Hosptial in Edmonton, AB. She completed her pediatric rheumatology training at BC Children’s Hospital. Prior to this training, she spent a year completing a clinical and research training program in pediatric pain management, funded by the Stollery Children’s Foundation. Dr. McGrath has worked with many amazing kids with chronic pain who have come a long way in understanding their pain and making changes in their lives. She says she loves empowering them with the education and tools they need to lead the lives they want.

“Devyn, now 14 years old, was diagnosed with undifferentiated JIA after years of pain when she was 12 years old. Like every parent who has been on this journey, I immediately looked for as much information as I could find to help my girl. So much of this journey left me feeling helpless as a parent, but the opportunity to be involved at Cassie + Friends truly provides me with the chance to take control and make a difference. To ensure no family, no child, has to feel alone with this.”

Devyn and Jennifer live in Amherstburg, ON, a small town just outside of Windsor. They have hosted their own VIRTUAL Team Cassie + Friends event in their community and have truly been leaders in raising awareness of JA, sharing their experiences and bringing other families together. Jennifer is currently a member of the Cassie + Friends Board of Directors and Devyn is a strong, courageous and inspirational youth cultivating a safe space for all youth with rheumatic diseases!