Kawasaki Disease (KD) remains one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in children under five years old worldwide. As the Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF) marks significant milestones, including 25 years of advocacy, their latest updates highlight personal stories, upcoming events, and research opportunities. These efforts unite families, researchers, and medical professionals to advance awareness, education, and treatment for Kawasaki Disease.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
As we celebrate 25 years of the Kawasaki Disease Foundation, we’re honored to look back on where it all began with one family’s determination to make sure no parent ever faced Kawasaki Disease alone. Greg Chin founded KDF in 2000 after his son’s diagnosis with KD. What started as a small parent symposium has grown into a global movement. In a special Q&A, Greg shares the journey, key milestones, and the foundation’s impact on research and family support. According to the American Heart Association, early diagnosis and treatment with IVIG can reduce coronary artery complications from 25% to 5%, underscoring the importance of KDF’s work in education and awareness (source: AHA guidelines).
This legacy continues to drive initiatives that connect thousands of families and fund critical research into the causes and long-term effects of Kawasaki Disease.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father's Story
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
My name is Loren Wheale, and I want to tell you about my daughter Mollie. I am telling this story for the parents who are right now sitting in a hospital room with a sick child, scared out of their minds, wondering if life will ever be normal again. I have been there. I know that fear. Mollie was born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. She was a bright, curious little girl from the start, always moving and always learning. But her second birthday was not spent with cake and balloons. It was spent in a hospital bed.
Mollie was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease just before turning two. Symptoms included persistent high fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, red eyes, and strawberry tongue—classic signs of KD. Prompt treatment prevented major heart issues, but the experience transformed our family. Today, Mollie thrives, participating in school and activities. Stories like hers emphasize resilience and the critical role of early intervention, as supported by pediatric guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
KDF Youth
KDF Youth’s Standout Intern: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
This month, we are so proud to shine our Intern Spotlight on siblings Joshua and Charlotte, who have brought incredible heart, dedication, and creativity to KDF Youth. Joshua’s experience with KD at a young age inspired him to share his voice and spread awareness so that other families would have the resources his didn’t have at the time. Charlotte, motivated by her twin brother’s journey, jumped in alongside him to give back, create meaningful content, and support families navigating KD. Together, they embody the very spirit of our mission, turning personal experience into purpose and using their voices to uplift others.
Their contributions include social media campaigns and youth events, fostering a community for KD survivors.
KDF Awareness Campaign Image
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day: January 26, 2025
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day on January 26, 2025, calls for unity under the theme “Lights On, Hearts Strong.” This campaign illuminates KD challenges, raises awareness, and celebrates the strength of affected children and families. Participate by lighting up spaces with white and red lights, wearing red, sharing on social media with #LightsOnHeartsStrong, or creating fundraisers. The goal is $50,000 to fund research and support—90 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs. Learn more at kdday.org.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki, who first described KD in the 1960s, this scholarship reopens January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year. Awards include $5,000 for high school seniors/undergrads and $10,000 for graduate students in health/bio-medical fields, requiring a 3.5 GPA, KD connection, and community service. Applications due February 28, 2026, via the KDF site. Past recipients like Kate Xu exemplify excellence. Details at kdfoundation.org/dr-tomisaku-kawasaki-memorial-scholarship/.
Join the UC San Diego Adult KD Study – Control Group Needed
UC San Diego seeks adults over 18 with no KD history for a control group studying long-term effects. Enroll via adultkd@health.ucsd.edu; complete a questionnaire and optional blood draw (San Diego locals). Your participation advances KD research—contact today at kdfoundation.org/akd/.
In summary, the Kawasaki Disease Foundation’s latest updates showcase inspiring stories, vital events, scholarships, and research calls. Whether sharing experiences or joining Awareness Day, every action supports better outcomes for KD families. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice, and explore KDF resources to get involved.
References
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: kdfoundation.org
- KD Awareness Day: kdday.org
- American Heart Association KD Guidelines
- CDC Kawasaki Disease Overview
