Updates
Why I'm Running: For My Daughter and Every Brave Kid at SickKids
Wednesday 26th Mar
In early 2024, my world shifted when my daughter was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). As a parent, there’s nothing more difficult than watching your child wake up with pain, move with difficulty, or feel frustration at things other kids take for granted — like running, jumping, or even walking comfortably.
But through it all, she has shown nothing but courage. She receives regular injections as part of her treatment plan — and not once has she complained. No tears. No resistance. Just quiet strength. Her resilience is a reminder to me daily of what it means to face adversity with grace.
Behind her bravery is an exceptional team at SickKids’ Rheumatology Department. From day one, they’ve approached her care with compassion, expertise, and urgency. They’ve made us feel supported, informed, and hopeful — even on the hardest days. I truly can’t say enough about their dedication not only to my daughter's well-being, but to the health and futures of thousands of kids like her.
That’s why this year, I’m lacing up and running in The Million Reasons Run.
I'm running to raise money and awareness for the life-changing work SickKids does every day. I’m running to support the researchers, nurses, doctors, and caregivers who walk alongside families like mine. And most of all, I’m running for my daughter — and every child who shows incredible bravery in the face of chronic illness.
If you’ve ever wondered what strength looks like, it’s in kids like my daughter. And if you’ve ever wondered what hope looks like, it’s in hospitals like SickKids.
Help me support them. Let’s make sure every child battling a tough diagnosis has a chance at a healthier, brighter future.
With gratitude,
Samir
