Kawasaki Disease (KD) remains a challenging pediatric condition that requires greater awareness, research, and support for affected families. The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF) continues to lead this effort, bringing together parents, survivors, researchers, and advocates. In this roundup of the latest news, we highlight inspiring stories, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved, drawing from the foundation’s recent announcements. Whether you’re a parent navigating a KD diagnosis or someone passionate about pediatric health, these updates showcase the resilience of the KD community.
Founder Greg Chin reflecting on 25 years of dedication to Kawasaki Disease awareness and support
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
As the Kawasaki Disease Foundation celebrates its 25th anniversary, founder Greg Chin shares profound insights in a special Q&A. Chin established KDF in 2000 following his son’s diagnosis with Kawasaki Disease, turning personal hardship into a global mission. What began as a modest parent symposium has evolved into a robust network uniting families, researchers, and medical professionals worldwide. Key milestones include expanded awareness campaigns, research funding, and educational resources that ensure no family faces KD alone. Chin’s reflections emphasize the foundation’s growth from grassroots efforts to a cornerstone of KD advocacy, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in advancing treatments and understanding long-term effects.
This journey underscores the foundation’s commitment to evidence-based initiatives, supported by partnerships with pediatric experts and institutions like UC San Diego.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Personal stories like that of Loren Wheale offer hope to families dealing with Kawasaki Disease. Wheale recounts his daughter Mollie’s experience, born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. Mollie was a vibrant, curious child until her second birthday, which was overshadowed by a hospital stay due to KD symptoms. Writing for parents in hospital rooms, gripped by fear and uncertainty, Wheale shares, “I have been there. I know that fear.” His narrative details the challenges of acute illness, recovery, and long-term thriving, emphasizing normalcy and joy post-diagnosis.
Such testimonials align with KDF’s mission to provide emotional support and practical resources, drawing from real family experiences to build trust and resilience in the KD community.
Father Loren Wheale sharing his Kawasaki Disease journey with daughter Mollie
KDF Youth’s Standout Interns: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
KDF Youth exemplifies the next generation’s role in Kawasaki Disease advocacy through interns like siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei. Joshua, who faced KD at a young age, channels his experience into awareness efforts, ensuring other families access resources his didn’t. Charlotte, inspired by her twin, joins him in creating content and supporting affected families. Their dedication brings “heart, creativity, and purpose,” embodying KDF’s ethos of transforming personal stories into action.
These young leaders contribute to educational materials and peer support, fostering a sense of community among KD survivors and their siblings.
KDF Youth interns Joshua and Charlotte Wei promoting Kawasaki Disease awareness
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 the community to honor the bravery of KD children and families. This initiative aims to spotlight KD challenges, boost awareness, and fund vital research. With a $50,000 fundraising goal, every contribution lights the way forward.
Promotional graphic for Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day Lights On Hearts Strong campaign
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship and Research Opportunities
The Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship reopens on January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year, honoring the doctor who first described Kawasaki Disease. Eligible students in pediatric medicine are encouraged to apply.
Additionally, UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research team seeks adults over 18 with no KD history for a control group study on long-term effects. Participation involves a questionnaire and optional blood draw—email to join and advance KD understanding.
In summary, these updates from the Kawasaki Disease Foundation highlight 25 years of progress, personal triumphs, and calls to action. From Greg Chin’s founding vision to youth-led initiatives and Awareness Day, KDF remains a trusted resource. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice, and support the cause through donations or participation. Learn more and get involved today at KDFoundation.org.
References
- Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day
- Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
- Adult KD Study
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation official website and blog posts (accessed November 2025). All information verified from primary sources for accuracy and reliability.
