Alice (10 yrs old) was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) in May 2018. JDM is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by skin rash, fatigue, muscle weakness, and pain, which are caused by inflammation in the blood vessels (vasculitis). JDM affects 3,000-5,000 children in the USA. 

Since her diagnosis by the pediatric rheumatology team at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, she has been on an aggressive treatment plan with the goal of reaching remission in 2-3 years. Her treatment has included daily medicine, steroids, weekly injections at home, and infusions at the hospital. Due to her immune suppression treatment, she is at risk at getting sick at any time. She must avoid sun as it can aggravate the condition. 

I am pleased to announce that Alice is still in medical remission.  We are managing her disease with medicine with the hopes of weaning her off all medicine THIS YEAR!!!!!  

Alice is now a “normal” active girl playing basketball, learning volleyball, and participating in Girls on the Runs 5K Program.  It amazes me every day to see the progress she has made to remission since her initial diagnosis two and half years ago.  We are very fortunate that she has responded so well to her treatments. 

We are participating in the 2nd annual Walk Strong Across America and invite you to show your support by making a gift and walking with us on or before July 4th - from the comfort of your home, in your yard, or around your neighborhood. 

Cure JM families, friends and supporters are coming together to raise $750,000 for Juvenile Myositis research.  Reaching this important milestone will help ensure no promising research is left on the table in 2021.

Gifts will be matched by the Leetz Family Match.  Every
dollar makes a difference and gifts will be put straight to work to advance research for better treatments, better care, and, ultimately, a cure.  We are so grateful for your support.