Kawasaki Disease (KD), a rare vasculitis that primarily affects children under five, continues to impact families worldwide, causing symptoms like prolonged fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and potential heart complications if untreated. The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF), dedicated to awareness, education, and research, marks its 25th anniversary in 2025 with inspiring stories, youth involvement, and key events. Founded to support parents facing this challenging diagnosis, KDF unites families, researchers, and medical professionals. These latest updates highlight personal journeys, upcoming campaigns, and opportunities to contribute to the fight against 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 KD, turning a personal crisis into a global mission. What began as a modest parent symposium has evolved into a robust organization fostering collaboration among families, doctors, and scientists. Over 25 years, KDF has driven advancements in early detection, treatment protocols like IVIG therapy, and long-term coronary health monitoring—critical for preventing aneurysms in about 25% of untreated cases, according to pediatric guidelines.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
In a recent Q&A, Greg shares milestones such as expanding research grants and international outreach, emphasizing community as the cornerstone of progress. His vision ensures no family navigates Kawasaki Disease alone, drawing from real-world experiences to inform evidence-based support.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Loren Wheale shares a poignant account of his daughter Mollie, born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. Described as bright and curious, Mollie’s second birthday marked a turning point with hospitalization due to Kawasaki Disease symptoms. For parents in hospital rooms fearing an uncertain future, Loren’s narrative offers hope, detailing recovery challenges and triumphs.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father
Mollie’s journey underscores KD’s variability—some children face lingering cardiac issues requiring echocardiograms, while others thrive with vigilant care. Loren’s story highlights resilience, family bonds, and the vital role of timely diagnosis, aligning with KDF’s educational resources that empower caregivers.
KDF Youth’s Standout Intern: Joshua & Charlotte Wei
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify youth leadership at KDF. Joshua, who experienced KD young, channels his story into advocacy, ensuring others access resources his family lacked. Charlotte, inspired by her twin, co-creates content and supports affected families, embodying KDF’s ethos of transforming adversity into action.
KDF Youth siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei promoting Kawasaki Disease awareness
Their internship showcases creativity in social media campaigns and peer support, vital as KD survivors often deal with lifelong heart surveillance. Such involvement fosters a new generation committed to Kawasaki Disease research and stigma reduction.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day: January 26, 2025
Mark your calendars for Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day on January 26, 2025, during Awareness Month. The “Lights On, Hearts Strong” campaign urges lighting homes or social media with white and red lights, sharing #LightsOnHeartsStrong posts, and wearing red. Aimed at raising $50,000 for research and family aid—with 90% of funds direct to programs—participation includes donations, fundraisers, and shopping KD merchandise.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day promotional banner for Lights On Hearts Strong campaign
Resources like Kawasaki Disease 101 and expert Q&As amplify reach. This movement not only spotlights symptoms—fever over five days, strawberry tongue, conjunctivitis—but celebrates KD kids’ bravery.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the pioneering pediatrician who identified KD in the 1960s-70s, this scholarship reopens January 26, 2026, for 2026-2027. Awards up to $10,000 target U.S. students in health/medical fields with KD connections, 3.5+ GPA, and service commitment. Categories include high school seniors ($5,000), undergraduates ($5,000), and graduates ($10,000).
Applications require essays on KD ties and plans, plus transcripts, due February 28, 2026. Funds go to tuition, selected by KD-experienced reviewers.
Join UC San Diego’s Adult KD Study
The UC San Diego team seeks control group participants over 18 with no KD history for a long-term effects study. Email adultkd@health.ucsd.edu to enroll via questionnaire; San Diego locals may opt for blood draws. This research advances understanding of cardiac risks, aiding treatments informed by thousands of cases annually.
These updates reflect KDF’s enduring impact on Kawasaki Disease management. From founder reflections to youth action and research calls, every effort builds toward fewer complications and better outcomes. Consult pediatricians for symptoms, support KDF through donations or events, and explore resources at kdfoundation.org. Join the movement—your involvement strengthens hearts and futures.
