No Child Should Face Chronic Illness Alone. You Can Help!
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1 in 1000 Canadian children live with childhood arthritis, and at 13, I became one of them.
Hi, my name is Natasha, and when I was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), my life changed forever. JIA is an incurable inflammatory disease that causes chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Yet, most people do not even realize it affects children. Suddenly, I was navigating pain, fatigue, and endless doctor’s appointments while trying to keep up with school and live a normal teenage life.
I often felt judged and dismissed by teachers who did not believe I was sick enough to need extra time, accommodations or support. No matter how much pain I was in, I was expected to push through like nothing was wrong. I felt invisible, isolated in a body that was constantly fighting against me.
As I connected with others, I realized how many kids and teens were facing the same struggles. Yet, there was no dedicated space for young people to share their experiences, find support, and connect with those who truly understood. That is why in 2021, I created the Take a Pain Check (TAPC) Podcast, which soon grew into the TAPC Foundation, a global community focused on empowerment, leadership, advocacy, and support.
Why We Need Your Help
Today, TAPC reaches thousands of young people through our podcast, social media, online programming, and in-person initiatives. We help youth manage the challenges of chronic illness, from pain management to pursuing their dreams, while ensuring they never feel alone in their journey.
Your donation will allow us to:
- Host in-person events, hybrid and virtual programs to improve care and community support for young patients
- Create and distribute tools and resources in hospitals and clinics to spread awareness
- Offer scholarships to students with rheumatic diseases so they can pursue their goals
- Maintain our free podcast and online community, ensuring every young person has access to support no matter where they are
If TAPC had existed when I was first diagnosed, I would have felt less alone, more understood, and better prepared for the journey ahead. Today, I want to make sure no young person has to face this challenge without community, resources, and hope.
Your donation, no matter the amount, helps keep this mission alive. Together, we can change lives. Please consider contributing today and sharing this campaign with your friends and family.
Support youth like me by donating to Take a Pain Check Foundation today.
Organizer
Natasha Trehan
Organizer
North York, ON