#KidsCantWait
Only 1 in 5 Canadians Know Kids Get Arthritis
When it comes to kids, time matters
Early diagnosis can change a child’s life. Yet too many children in Canada wait months—or even years—for answers.
Through #KidsCantWait, we’re working to raise awareness about Juvenile Arthritis, challenge harmful myths, and help families get the care they need sooner.
Kids Wait
too Long for Diagnosis
Kids Are Waiting Too Long for a Diagnosis
Many people still believe arthritis only affects older adults. In reality, juvenile arthritis is one of the leading causes of chronic childhood disability in Canada—affecting over 25,000 children and youth.
Because of low awareness and persistent misconceptions, families often face long delays before getting the right diagnosis and care.
- Symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed
- Referrals to specialists can take months or longer
- Delayed diagnosis can lead to long-term complications
We believe no child should have to wait in pain for answers.
By the Numbers
Dedicated to supporting children and families.
Early Diagnosis is the Key
When juvenile arthritis is identified early, the outcome for a child can change dramatically. With the right care at the right time, children have a far better chance of managing their condition and living full, active lives.
But when diagnosis is delayed, the risks increase—and so does the impact on families.
Early diagnosis helps:
- Reduce long-term pain and joint damage
- Prevent complications such as vision loss
- Improve physical, emotional, and social wellbeing
- Give families clarity and confidence in next steps
This is why awareness isn’t just important—it’s urgent.
What We are Working Towards
At Cassie + Friends, awareness is just the beginning. #KidsCantWait is a national effort to ensure that no child is left waiting for the care they need.
We are working to:
- Improve early recognition and diagnosis across Canada
- Support families from day one with trusted resources and connection
- Advance access to effective treatments and equitable care
- Raise national awareness and challenge outdated myths
Every story shared, every resource accessed, and every action taken helps move this work forward.
Know the Signs,
Act Early
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) doesn’t always look the way people expect. Symptoms can be subtle, come and go, or be mistaken for something else — which is why many children face delays in diagnosis.
Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Early recognition leads to earlier care — and better outcomes.
Children with JIA may experience:
- Joint swelling, pain, or warmth
- Morning stiffness or difficulty moving
- Fatigue or reduced activity levels
- Limping or avoiding use of a limb
- Unexplained fever or rash
- Eye inflammation (uveitis), which can affect vision
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. Early diagnosis matters — because #KidsCantWait.
What is JIA?
JIA is an autoimmune disease that can affect the whole body — not just the joints — and there is still no known cure.
Watch to understand why early awareness is critical.
Challenging Misconceptions
Misunderstandings about juvenile arthritis are one of the biggest barriers to early diagnosis. By sharing accurate, accessible information, we can help families and communities recognize the signs sooner.
Here are a few common misconceptions.
Myth: Kids don’t get Arthritis
Myth: It only affects the joints
Myth: A simple test can confirm it
Myth: Kids will soon outgrow it
“Awareness changes outcomes—and it starts with understanding the facts.” — Cassie + Friends Team
Real Stories. Real Impact.
What #KidsCantWait is driving forward.
Behind every statistic is a child, a family, and a journey that deserves to be seen and understood.
Through #KidsCantWait, families are sharing their experiences to raise awareness and help others feel less alone.
Explore stories from children and families navigating juvenile arthritis—and why they can’t wait for better awareness, faster diagnosis, and stronger support.
How You Can Help
Raising awareness and improving outcomes for kids doesn’t happen alone. Every action—big or small—helps move this work forward.
Here’s how you can be part of the #KidsCantWait movement:
Donate To
Cassie + Friends
Participate
In Events
Raise Local
Awareness
Stay
Informed
Spread the Word
Only 1 in 5 Canadians know that kids can get arthritis. That lack of awareness leads to delayed diagnosis and unnecessary suffering.
You can help change that.
• Download and share our awareness poster
• Display it in schools, clinics, and workplaces
• Start conversations in your community
• Post and share using #KidsCantWait
We’re continuing to add more downloadable resources to help you spread awareness — be sure to check back again soon.
“Together, we can create change that reaches every child who needs it.” — Cassie + Friends Team
Download and share our graphics—or print your own graphic to write on and snap a picture for social media. Be sure to tag @CAFSociety and use #KidsCantWait
Connect With Us
Mighty KidsLibrary
Stories, videos, and tools designed just for kids living with arthritis.
