Kawasaki disease (KD) is a rare but serious condition that primarily affects young children under the age of 5, causing inflammation in the blood vessels throughout the body. Common symptoms include a persistent high fever lasting at least five days, red eyes without discharge, a rash on the trunk and genitals, swollen lymph nodes, red cracked lips, and swollen hands or feet. According to the CDC and American Heart Association, early diagnosis and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and high-dose aspirin are critical to reduce the risk of heart complications like coronary artery aneurysms, which occur in about 25% of untreated cases. The Kawasaki Disease Foundation (KDF), established in 2000, has been a beacon of support, funding research, raising awareness, and connecting families worldwide. As the foundation marks 25 years, here are the latest stories, events, and opportunities highlighting its enduring impact.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Greg Chin founded the Kawasaki Disease Foundation in December 2000, driven by his family’s personal battle with KD. After his son Chance was diagnosed in 1998 at a young age—though Chin’s deeper involvement grew around 2006—the family faced isolation and limited resources. What began as a small parent symposium has evolved into a global network uniting families, researchers, and clinicians. In a recent Q&A, Chin shares how turning personal hardship into action created lasting change, from awareness campaigns to research grants. Today, KDF continues to advocate for better diagnostics and treatments, emphasizing that no family should face KD alone.
Founder Greg Chin Reflects on 25 Years of KDF
Chin’s vision underscores the foundation’s growth: from grassroots efforts to collaborations with leading institutions like UC San Diego. This milestone reflects not just survival but thriving through community and science.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father’s Story
Loren Wheale shares a heartfelt account of his daughter Mollie, born on November 27, 2007, in Manteca, California. Mollie was a vibrant, curious toddler until her second birthday in 2009, when instead of celebrations, she ended up in a hospital bed battling Kawasaki disease. Wheale recounts the terror of watching his child suffer high fever, rashes, and other classic symptoms, mirroring the fear many parents endure. Yet, Mollie’s story is one of resilience—she recovered and thrived, proving life can return to normal post-KD with proper care.
Thriving Beyond KD: A Father's Story
This narrative, originally shared on the KDF site, serves as hope for those in hospital rooms now. Early intervention, as recommended by Mayo Clinic guidelines, dramatically improves outcomes, reducing fever within 36 hours for most children.
KDF Youth’s Standout Interns: Joshua and Charlotte Wei
Siblings Joshua and Charlotte Wei exemplify the next generation’s commitment to the KD cause through KDF Youth. Joshua, who experienced KD at a young age, channels his journey into advocacy, ensuring other families access the support his didn’t have initially. Charlotte, his twin, joined to create content, amplify voices, and assist navigating KD challenges. Their dedication—producing awareness materials and engaging communities—captures KDF’s spirit of transforming experience into action.
KDF Youth Interns Joshua and Charlotte Wei
These young interns highlight how personal stories fuel broader impact, aligning with KDF’s mission to empower youth survivors and siblings.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day: Lights On, Hearts Strong
January 26, 2025, marked National Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day with the “Lights On, Hearts Strong” campaign. This initiative lit up the challenges of KD, celebrating the bravery of affected children and families while rallying for research and education. Participants worldwide turned on lights symbolically, raising funds and visibility—over $50,000 was the goal, with ongoing efforts via kdday.org.
Kawasaki Disease Awareness Campaign Graphic
The event reinforces annual pushes for recognition, as KD remains the leading cause of acquired heart disease in U.S. children.
Dr. Tomisaku Kawasaki Memorial Scholarship
Honoring the doctor who first described KD in 1967, this scholarship reopens applications on January 26, 2025, for the 2025-2026 school year. Aimed at high school and college students impacted by KD, it supports education amid health challenges. Learn more and apply at KDF Scholarship page.
Join UC San Diego’s Kawasaki Disease Research Study
UC San Diego’s team invites adults over 18 with no KD history to join as a control group, helping study long-term effects. Simple enrollment via email includes a questionnaire and optional blood draw—your contribution advances understanding and treatments. Details at AKD Study.
In summary, the Kawasaki Disease Foundation’s 25-year legacy shines through inspiring stories, awareness drives, scholarships, and research calls. Whether reflecting on origins or supporting current families, KDF embodies hope against KD. Consult pediatricians promptly for symptoms, and consider getting involved—donate, share, or join studies to prevent heart issues and foster resilience. Stay informed via KDF resources for the best outcomes.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Kawasaki Disease
- Mayo Clinic: Kawasaki Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
- American Heart Association: Kawasaki Disease Guidelines
- Kawasaki Disease Foundation: Official site stories and events (kdfoundation.org)
