Cassie + Friends’ Work in Remote and Rural Communities
By engaging with families living in remote and rural communities in Canada, we aim to create vibrant, connected, and well-supported childhood rheumatic disease communities while advancing inclusive and equitable access to healthcare from initial diagnosis into young adulthood.
Our Work in Northern BC
What impact does living hundreds (and in some cases, thousands) of kilometres away from the nearest Children’s Hospital have on kids and families affected by childhood rheumatic disease? Here’s what we are learning.
Engagement To-Date
We are thankfully able to see the BC Children’s Rheumatology team every 3 months in Prince George at their outreach clinic. Though this takes an amazing amount of stress away, we’ve still had to travel down to Vancouver for injection treatments that aren’t offered in PG. It’s a 12 hour drive, partially on treacherous and unreliable roads, and we have to pay out of pocket for gas, accommodation and lost wages due to unpaid time off of work. – Parent, Prince George
We are thankfully able to see the BC Children’s Rheumatology team every 3 months in Prince George at their outreach clinic. Though this takes an amazing amount of stress away, we’ve still had to travel down to Vancouver for injection treatments that aren’t offered in PG. It’s a 12 hour drive, partially on treacherous and unreliable roads, and we have to pay out of pocket for gas, accommodation and lost wages due to unpaid time off of work. – Parent, Prince George
You are not alone.
We’ve connected with families living in Northern BC to learn more about the unique challenges they face. Below you will find their stories. Reach out to us to get connected with one of the families who have shared their story below to continue the conversation, share tips and more.
Scarlett’s Story
Scarlett’s journey started at about 16 months old. We [...]
Oliver’s Diagnostic Journey: Periodic Fever Syndromes
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Our Commitment to Truth & Reconciliation
Many of the families living in remote and rural communities across Canada are Indigenous peoples, adding a variety of complexities and systemic barriers to face when accessing healthcare. You can read more about our commitment to Truth & Reconciliation and deepen your understanding of the unique challenges facing Indigenous families and the prevalence of arthritis in Indigenous communities at cassieandfriends.ca/truth-reconciliation.
Thank you to our community partners for supporting our work!
