Kawasaki Disease (KD) remains one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in children under five, affecting thousands worldwide each year. As the Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF) marks its 25th anniversary, the organization continues to lead efforts in awareness, family support, research, and education. Founded in 2000 by Greg Chin after his son’s diagnosis, KDF has grown from a single parent symposium into a global network connecting families, clinicians, and researchers. This roundup highlights inspiring stories, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved in the fight against Kawasaki Disease.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin’s journey began in 1998 when his son was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease just before turning three. Facing a lack of resources and support at the time, Chin connected with KD experts at Children’s Hospital in Boston and Dr. Jane Burns. This led to the first KD parent symposium, laying the groundwork for KDF. In a recent Q&A, Chin shares his reflections on the foundation’s evolution.
Key milestones include the inaugural parent event in Boston in 2000, participation in the 2001 International Kawasaki Disease Symposium in Hakone, Japan, launching the KDF website, creating the Bridges support program, and building the KD photo library for symptom recognition. Chin also highlights international collaborations, such as symposia in India with Dr. Surjit Singh and Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki, and aiding KD groups in Canada, Australia, and South Africa.
“I’m blown away that KDF has been around so long,” Chin notes, emphasizing the ongoing need due to KD’s unknown cause and absence of a reliable diagnostic test. His message to families: “You are your child’s best advocate.” Even without a cure, education and awareness save lives, a principle that has sustained KDF for 25 years.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Personal stories like Loren Wheale’s remind us of KD’s real impact. Wheale shares his experience with daughter Mollie, born November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. A bright and curious child, Mollie’s second birthday marked a turning point—spent in a hospital bed battling KD symptoms instead of celebrating. Wheale wrote this for parents in hospital rooms, gripped by fear: “I have been there. I know that fear.”
These narratives underscore KDF’s role in providing emotional support and resources, helping families navigate diagnosis, treatment, and long-term recovery.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father's Story
KDF Youth’s Standout Intern: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
Youth involvement is vital to KDF’s future. Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify this through their internship with KDF Youth. Joshua, who faced KD young, channels his experience into awareness efforts, ensuring other families access resources his didn’t. Charlotte, inspired by her brother, creates content and supports affected families. Together, they turn personal challenges into purpose, embodying KDF’s mission.
KDF Youth’s Standout Interns Joshua and Charlotte Wei
Their dedication highlights how younger generations amplify voices in the Kawasaki Disease community.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day: January 26, 2025
Mark your calendars for Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day on January 26, 2025. The “Lights On, Hearts Strong” campaign calls for lighting up homes, workplaces, and social media in white and red to spotlight KD challenges. With a $50,000 fundraising goal—90 cents of every dollar funding programs—participate by donating, wearing red, sharing #LightsOnHeartsStrong posts, or hosting fundraisers. Shop merchandise like T-shirts and hoodies to show support.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day Campaign Graphic
This movement celebrates KD kids’ resilience while driving research and family aid.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the pediatrician who identified KD, this scholarship reopens January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year. Two awards: $5,000 for high school seniors/undergrads and $10,000 for grad/professional students in health/medical fields. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship/residency, 3.5+ GPA, KD connection, community service, and relevant majors like biology or medicine. Apply by February 28, 2026, with essay and transcripts. Funds go directly to institutions.
Join UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study
Contribute to science as a control participant (age 18+, no KD history). Email adultkd@health.ucsd.edu to complete a questionnaire; San Diego locals may opt for a blood draw. This study examines KD’s long-term effects, aiding researchers in understanding the disease better.
In summary, KDF’s 25 years reflect unwavering commitment to Kawasaki Disease families. From Greg Chin’s vision to youth leaders and global campaigns, progress continues. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice, and consider supporting through donations or awareness efforts. Stay connected via KDF’s website for updates.
References
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: Founder Q&A
- KD Awareness Day: kdday.org
- Scholarship Details: kdfoundation.org/scholarship
- Research Study: kdfoundation.org/akd
- American Heart Association on Kawasaki Disease (for general info on symptoms and treatment).
