Kawasaki Disease (KD) remains one of the leading causes of acquired heart disease in children under five years old, characterized by prolonged fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and potential coronary artery complications if untreated. According to the CDC, early diagnosis and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and aspirin significantly reduce risks. The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF), dedicated to awareness, education, family support, and research since 2000, continues to lead the charge. As we approach the end of 2025, KDF highlights inspiring stories, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved, ensuring no family faces KD alone.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin founded 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 organization uniting families, researchers, and medical professionals worldwide. In a special Q&A marking the 25th anniversary, Greg shares the pivotal moments, challenges overcome, and the enduring commitment to advancing KD research and support.
This journey underscores the foundation’s growth from grassroots efforts to influencing policy, funding studies, and providing resources that have helped thousands. Families today benefit from improved diagnostics and treatments, largely due to KDF’s advocacy.
Founder Greg Chin reflecting on 25 years of dedication to Kawasaki Disease Foundation
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Loren Wheale shares a poignant account to comfort parents in hospital rooms, gripped by fear over their child’s future. His daughter Mollie, born November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California, was a vibrant toddler until her second birthday, overshadowed by hospitalization due to KD symptoms. Loren’s narrative highlights the initial terror but emphasizes hope and normalcy post-recovery.
Many KD survivors like Mollie lead full lives with proper follow-up care, monitoring heart health through echocardiograms. Stories like this inspire resilience, reminding families that with timely intervention—typically within 10 days of fever onset—outcomes improve dramatically.
A father recounting his family's journey thriving beyond Kawasaki Disease
KDF Youth’s Standout Interns: Joshua and Charlotte Wei
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify youth leadership at KDF Youth. Joshua, diagnosed with KD young, channels his experience into advocacy, ensuring other families access vital resources unavailable during his treatment. Charlotte, driven by her twin’s story, collaborates to produce engaging content and support affected families.
Their dedication embodies KDF’s ethos: transforming adversity into action. Through internships, young voices amplify awareness via social media, events, and peer support, fostering a new generation committed to KD eradication.
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei as standout Kawasaki Disease Foundation Youth interns
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 rallies communities to spotlight KD challenges, celebrate survivors’ spirits, and drive change. Illuminate homes, offices, or profiles with white and red lights or hearts, share #LightsOnHeartsStrong posts, and wear red.
Currently, fundraising stands at $0 of $50,000, with 90 cents of every dollar fueling research and programs—no paid staff maximizes impact. Participate via donations, personal fundraisers, or shopping KD merchandise to amplify reach.
Promotional graphic for Lights On, Hearts Strong Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day 2025
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the pioneering pediatrician who first described KD in 1967, this scholarship reopens January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year. Aimed at U.S. students in health or biomedical fields with a KD connection, it awards $5,000 for high school seniors/undergrads and $10,000 for grads. Eligibility requires 3.5+ GPA, community service, and essays detailing KD ties.
Applications demand transcripts and personal statements; recipients aid tuition. This tribute inspires future leaders in medicine, echoing Dr. Kawasaki’s legacy until his passing in 2020.
Join UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study
The UC San Diego team seeks control participants over 18 with no KD history to study long-term effects. Enroll via email at adultkd@health.ucsd.edu, complete an online questionnaire, and opt for a blood draw if in San Diego. Your contribution provides critical comparative data, advancing treatments and prevention.
In summary, the Kawasaki Disease Foundation’s 25-year milestone showcases transformative stories, vital events like Awareness Day, scholarships, and research calls. These efforts empower families, fund breakthroughs, and build hope. Get involved today—donate, volunteer, or share your story at kdfoundation.org. Together, we strengthen hearts against KD.
References
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: kdfoundation.org
- KD Awareness Day: kdday.org
- CDC on Kawasaki Disease: cdc.gov/kawasaki
- Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship: kdfoundation.org/dr-tomisaku-kawasaki-memorial-scholarship/
- UCSD Adult KD Study: kdfoundation.org/akd/
