Only 1 in 5 Canadians Know Kids Get Arthritis. Help Us Change That.
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Many people mistakenly believe arthritis only affects older adults but in reality, Juvenile Arthritis is the most common cause of chronic childhood disability in Canada, affecting over 25,000 children and youth.
Low awareness and dangerous myths are putting kids at risk for lifelong pain, disability and even blindness. We hope you’ll join us in sharing facts and raising awareness. Your action today can transform kids’ lives because #KidsCantWait.
What #KidsCantWait Is Moving Forward
At Cassie + Friends, awareness is just the beginning. We’re working to:
• Ensure no child waits in pain for a diagnosis
• Support families from day one with trusted resources and connection
• Advance access to effective treatments and equitable care
Everything on this page — the facts, stories, and tools — is part of that work.
Facts About Juvenile Arthritis:
The term ‘Juvenile Arthritis’ is used as an umbrella term for many childhood rheumatic diseases. The most common form ‘Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). JIA is an autoimmune disease that affects the whole body. There is no known cause, no known cure and many kids wait months or years for a diagnosis because of harmful misconceptions.
Signs and Symptoms of JIA
Children with JIA may experience:
- Joint swelling, pain, and possibly warm to touch.
- Weakened muscles and soft tissues.
- Morning pain and/or stiffness.
- A high fever and light pink rash.
- Joints that grow too fast or too slowly.
- Eye inflammation, called Uveitis.
DOWNLOAD OUR JIA AWARENESS POSTER
In March 2025, Cassie + Friends launched a national early diagnosis and awareness campaign after receiving the shocking results of an IPSOS poll issued with support from our donors. The poll confirmed only 1 in 5 Canadians are aware that arthritis can be present in children. Here’s what Canadians need to know about JIA.
Here’s what Canadians need to know about JIA.
Patient and Family Stories
Read about some of the kids and families affected by JIA, and why they can’t wait.
Join the Movement. Because #KidsCantWait.
When you donate, take action, raise awareness, or stay informed — you’re helping:
• Reduce delays in diagnosis
• Strengthen support for families navigating JIA
• Push for better access to effective treatments and care
Here’s how you can help us take action now.
What Do You Think #KidsCantWait For?
Help us spread the word! All you have to do is 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.
