The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF) continues to be a beacon of hope for families worldwide dealing with Kawasaki Disease, a rare but serious illness primarily affecting young children. As we mark 25 years since its founding, the organization reflects on its journey from a single family’s crisis to a global network supporting awareness, research, and education. These latest updates highlight inspiring stories, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved, demonstrating the foundation’s enduring commitment to improving outcomes for those impacted by Kawasaki Disease.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin established the Kawasaki Disease Foundation in 2000 following his son’s diagnosis with Kawasaki Disease, an acute vasculitis that can lead to heart complications if not treated promptly. What began as a modest parent symposium has evolved into an international effort uniting families, medical researchers, and healthcare professionals. In a special Q&A, Greg shares the personal motivations behind KDF, key milestones like expanded research funding and awareness campaigns, and the vision for the future. His story underscores the power of turning adversity into action, ensuring no family faces Kawasaki Disease in isolation. Today, KDF’s resources reach thousands annually, providing critical education on symptoms such as prolonged fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes—early signs that every parent should recognize.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
This reflection not only celebrates past achievements but also emphasizes ongoing needs, like advancing diagnostic tools and long-term cardiac monitoring protocols recommended by experts like the American Heart Association.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Inspiring Story
Loren Wheale shares a deeply personal account to support parents currently in hospital rooms with their sick children, gripped by fear over Kawasaki Disease. 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. Despite the challenges of Kawasaki Disease, including potential coronary artery aneurysms, Mollie’s journey highlights resilience and recovery with timely intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment and aspirin therapy, standard protocols endorsed by pediatric specialists.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father's Story
Loren’s narrative offers practical encouragement: seek immediate medical attention for persistent fever over five days, red eyes, and strawberry tongue. Families like theirs demonstrate that with proper care, children can thrive post-Kawasaki Disease, returning to normal activities and long-term health monitoring.
KDF Youth Intern Spotlight: Joshua and Charlotte Wei
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify the next generation’s dedication through their standout work with KDF Youth. Joshua’s personal experience with Kawasaki Disease at a young age fueled his passion to advocate, creating resources that were unavailable to his family during diagnosis. Charlotte, inspired by her twin, joined to produce content, support peers, and amplify awareness efforts.
KDF Youth Standout Interns Joshua and Charlotte Wei
Their contributions align with KDF’s mission, leveraging personal stories to educate on Kawasaki Disease prevention and management. As young leaders, they remind us of the importance of youth involvement in health advocacy, drawing from evidence-based guidelines to empower families.
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 aims to spotlight the challenges of Kawasaki Disease, honor affected children, and rally community support. Participate by lighting up landmarks, sharing stories, and donating to research—helping surpass the $50,000 fundraising goal.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Campaign Visual
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
In tribute to Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki, who first described the disease in 1967, this scholarship reopens January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 academic year. It supports students impacted by Kawasaki Disease or pursuing related fields in pediatric medicine.
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Join UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study
Adults over 18 without a history of Kawasaki Disease are needed for a control group in UC San Diego’s study on long-term effects. Complete a questionnaire and optional blood draw via email enrollment to advance scientific understanding.
Join the Study
These stories and initiatives from the Kawasaki Disease Foundation illustrate a united front against this condition, backed by decades of expertise and real family experiences. Whether through personal testimonies, youth leadership, or research participation, every effort counts toward better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Consult pediatricians for any concerns, stay informed via KDF resources, and join the movement to support Kawasaki Disease awareness today.
