The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF) marks a remarkable milestone in 2025, celebrating 25 years of dedication to supporting families affected by Kawasaki disease (KD). Founded in 2000 by Greg Chin following his son Taylor’s diagnosis in 1998, KDF has evolved from a small parent-led initiative into a global force for awareness, education, and research. This organization unites parents, researchers, and medical professionals to combat KD, a rare vasculitis primarily affecting children under five, which can lead to serious heart complications if untreated. As we reflect on its journey, recent stories and upcoming events highlight the enduring impact of the Kawasaki Disease Foundation on countless lives.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin’s personal experience with KD ignited a lifelong mission. After Taylor’s diagnosis, Chin organized a parent symposium that laid the groundwork for KDF’s official launch in December 2000. In a recent Q&A, Chin shared: “My journey with the Kawasaki Disease Foundation began in 2006,” though his involvement started earlier, driven by the lack of resources available at the time. Over 25 years, KDF has facilitated research advancements, awareness campaigns, and family support networks.
Chin’s vision transformed tragedy into action, fostering collaborations worldwide. Today, KDF continues to fund studies and provide scholarships, ensuring no family faces KD alone. According to the CDC, KD occurs mostly in children younger than 5, with symptoms including prolonged fever, rash, red eyes, swollen lymph nodes, and changes in lips or tongue.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
This reflection underscores KDF’s growth, from grassroots efforts to influencing pediatric cardiology globally.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Loren Wheale’s narrative offers hope to parents navigating KD’s uncertainties. His daughter Mollie, born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California, was a vibrant toddler until her second birthday, when symptoms led to hospitalization instead of celebration. Mollie endured the classic KD signs—fever, rash, and inflammation—but with timely treatment, she recovered and thrived.
Wheale recounts the terror of those hospital days, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis. Treatment typically involves intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin to reduce inflammation and prevent coronary artery aneurysms, as recommended by Mayo Clinic experts. Mollie’s journey highlights resilience, proving life can return to normal post-KD.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father
Today, Mollie inspires others, reminding families that support from organizations like the Kawasaki Disease Foundation makes all the difference.
KDF Youth’s Standout Interns: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify the next generation’s commitment to KD advocacy through KDF Youth. Joshua, diagnosed with KD at a young age, channels his experience into creating resources his family lacked. Charlotte, motivated by her twin’s story, joined to produce content and support affected families.
Their internship showcases creativity and heart, aligning perfectly with KDF’s mission. By sharing personal stories and raising awareness, they amplify voices often overlooked in pediatric research. Ongoing studies, like those at UC San Diego, benefit from such youth involvement, exploring long-term KD effects.
KDF Youth
Joshua and Charlotte’s efforts demonstrate how personal experience fuels purposeful action within the Kawasaki Disease Foundation 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 unity to honor KD warriors’ strength and resilience. This initiative illuminates KD challenges, promotes early detection, and celebrates families’ unbreakable spirit.
Participation is simple—light up homes, share stories, and donate via kdday.org. Early intervention is critical, as untreated KD risks heart damage in up to 25% of cases, per NCBI StatPearls.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day campaign graphic
Join the movement to ensure every child receives prompt care.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the disease’s discoverer, Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki, this scholarship reopens on January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 academic year. It supports KD-affected students pursuing higher education, providing financial aid and recognition.
Eligible candidates include high school seniors and current college students impacted by KD. Past recipients like Kate Xu embody resilience, furthering Dr. Kawasaki’s legacy in pediatric medicine.
UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study
The UC San Diego team seeks adults over 18 with no KD history for a control group in long-term effects research. Participants complete questionnaires and optional blood draws via email enrollment.
Your involvement advances understanding of KD’s genetic and environmental factors, aiding future treatments. Learn more at kdfoundation.org/akd/.
In summary, the Kawasaki Disease Foundation’s 25-year legacy shines through inspiring stories, vital research, and community events. Early awareness and support are key to preventing complications—consult healthcare providers at the first signs of KD. Support KDF today through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word to protect more children.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Kawasaki Disease
- Mayo Clinic: Kawasaki Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: Official Website
- NCBI StatPearls: Kawasaki Disease
- KD Awareness Day: kdday.org
