www.curejm.com

[Madean]

I live in the Fort Wayne area and would love some information on doing a fund raiser. We are new to this community, my daughter was just diagnosed 3 weeks ago, she is 3 years old.

[Annie M]

Hi!

I am so sorry that your daughter is dealing with JDM, but I am glad that you were able to find the Cure JM website! I don't have a pre-schooler (a teenager instead), but there are many other families who do. (Leave a msg under "Support" if you want any extra tips helping a 3yr old deal with JDM - there's also several under the "Family Support Network" tab).

Have you filled out the "Patient Registry"? (click on left side bar from Cure JM homepage) - http://www.curejm.org Once registered, the Cure JM Registrar or Regional Rep for your area will be in touch with a Welcome Kit (lots of helpful info for newly diagnosed families!). The Cure JM Message Board is also a GREAT place to be connected with other Cure JM families.

Specific to Fundraisers -- From the Cure JM homepage, there are tabs across the top of the webpage that bring up "drop-down" menus when you roll your "mouse" over them. There is one for "Fundraising/Team JM". Through that drop-down menu, you can -
- download the "Fundraising Toolkit" booklet;
- visit the webpage listing 54 different creative fundraising ideas;
- view upcoming local events; and
- view a short Cure JM video (this is able to be used at local fundraisers to educate others about JDM & the need for research).

The first months of a JDM diagnosis can be overwhelming and extremely busy with medical appointments, adjusting to new medications, etc., etc. As Cure JM is an all-volunteer organization, we understand the dedication and balance many of us have as both caregivers and volunteers. There are many levels of involvement, so as you plan a fundraiser, choose one that fits you & your family's needs & time commitments best.

Also, save the date for the Cure JM annual national conference in Baltimore, MD, Oct. 12-13th. Many families find it not only helpful to meet with other JM families, but we also hear about the latest JDM research by the top JDM specialists in the nation. (You can find more info about this on the right sidebar of the homepage).
_________________
All For A Cure,
-Annie
Cure JM Facebook Page -- http://www.facebook.com/curejm