Kawasaki Disease remains one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in children under five years old, making awareness and research crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF), dedicated to supporting families affected by this rare illness, is marking 25 years since its inception. Founded in 2000 by Greg Chin following his son’s diagnosis, KDF has evolved from a modest parent symposium into a global force uniting families, researchers, and medical professionals. This milestone reflects a commitment to education, awareness, and advancing Kawasaki Disease research. In this roundup of the latest updates, we highlight inspiring stories, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin’s personal journey with Kawasaki Disease transformed grief into action. After his son’s diagnosis in 2000, he established KDF to ensure no family faces the uncertainty alone. What began as a small gathering of parents has grown into international symposia, research grants, and comprehensive resources.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
In a special Q&A, Greg shares the foundational moments, key milestones like expanding research funding, and the foundation’s role in improving outcomes for Kawasaki Disease patients. His vision emphasizes collaboration between families and experts, fostering a community where knowledge combats fear. Over 25 years, KDF has supported thousands, proving the power of collective determination in tackling Kawasaki Disease challenges.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Personal testimonies like Loren Wheale’s offer hope to families navigating a Kawasaki Disease diagnosis. Loren recounts his daughter Mollie’s story, born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. A vibrant child full of curiosity, Mollie’s second birthday marked a turning point—not with celebrations, but in a hospital bed battling the illness.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father
Loren speaks directly to parents in hospital rooms, gripped by fear about their child’s future. Having lived through it, he assures that life can return to normal with proper care and support. Stories like Mollie’s highlight resilience, long-term management of potential complications such as coronary artery issues, and the vital role of organizations like KDF in providing guidance and community.
KDF Youth’s Standout Intern: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
The next generation is stepping up through KDF Youth. Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify dedication as standout interns. Joshua’s own experience with Kawasaki Disease at a young age fuels his passion to raise awareness and ensure other families access the resources his lacked.
KDF Youth
Charlotte, inspired by her twin, joined to create content, support families, and amplify voices. Their contributions embody KDF’s mission: turning personal trials into purposeful action. Through creative initiatives and peer support, they uplift the Kawasaki Disease community, demonstrating how youth involvement drives meaningful change.
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 on everyone to honor the strength of KD kids and families. This movement sheds light on diagnosis challenges, promotes early detection, and celebrates resilience.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day Campaign Graphic
Join by participating in events, sharing stories, or donating toward the $50,000 goal. Visit kdday.org for ways to get involved and amplify the message about Kawasaki Disease.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the pediatrician who first described the disease in 1967, the Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship reopens January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year. This program supports students impacted by Kawasaki Disease or related fields. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply via KDF’s scholarship page.
UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study: Seeking Control Participants
Contribute to groundbreaking research! UC San Diego’s team is recruiting adults over 18 with no Kawasaki Disease history for a control group studying long-term effects. Enrollment involves a simple questionnaire and optional blood draw. Your participation advances understanding and treatments. Learn more and join at KDF’s study page.
These updates underscore KDF’s enduring impact on the Kawasaki Disease community. From reflective milestones to forward-looking initiatives, the foundation continues bridging gaps in awareness and research. Families facing Kawasaki Disease are not alone—resources, stories, and science are here to help. Stay connected, participate in events like Awareness Day, and consider supporting research or scholarships. Together, we strengthen hearts and light the way forward.
References
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: kdfoundation.org
- Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day: kdday.org
- Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship: kdfoundation.org/dr-tomisaku-kawasaki-memorial-scholarship/
- Adult KD Study: kdfoundation.org/akd/
