Walk Strong Raleigh-Durham

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026

Time: 10:00 am

Location: PullenPark - Shelter 4

RSVP HERE! https://forms.gle/osaZoVFuSjgBUWfh6

At just 8 years old, Mackenzie’s life changed when she was diagnosed with Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) in March 2022. What started with a heliotrope rash and symptoms that were difficult to identify quickly progressed to Gottron’s papules, extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty even lifting her head. Since her diagnosis, Mackenzie has faced countless appointments, treatments, blood draws, and monthly IVIG infusions while continuing to navigate life as a kid with a rare autoimmune disease.

Through every challenge, Mackenzie has continued to show incredible strength, courage, and resilience. Her journey is a reminder of why we walk—to support children and families living with JM, fund research for better treatments, and ultimately find a cure. By joining us for the Raleigh Walk Strong to Cure JM, you are helping make a difference not only in Mackenzie’s journey, but in the lives of every child fighting JDM. 

I'm walking to help kids fighting juvenile myositis (JM) - a painful, rare autoimmune disease that weakens muscles, damages skin and muscles, attacks organs, and can take away simple abilities like walking, smiling, or even swallowing.

There's no cure yet, but progress is happening.  Every step and every donation fuels research, supports families, and brings us closer to better treatments - and one day, a cure.

I'm joining the Walk Strong to Cure JM to raise funds for Cure JM, the only organization fully dedicated to this cause.  When we walk together, small steps create BIG change.

Your Impact Starts Now

Your donation today will:

💙Empower families - Foster a supportive community where families facing JM can connect with others who have experience in successfully navigating this journey

💙Fuel breakthroughs - Fund critical research for new treatments and make advances toward a possible cure, including the immune system reset "CAR-T"

💙Champion the best care - Help all families access the best medical resources and care available, closer to home

💙Inspire Hope - Let every child and family know they are not alone - and that their future is brighter because of people like you

Take a Small Step.  Make a Big Impact.

👉Click "Donate Now" to help me reach my goal and fuel this movement for change.

Prefer to donate by check?

Make checks payable to Cure JM and mail to:

Cure JM, P.O. Box 45768, Baltimore, MD  21297

(Please include honoree name in the memo line.)

Every donation - big or small - makes a real difference.

Thank you for your generosity and support.  Together, we can fight back.  Together, we are the cure in progress.