Cassidy

At just four years old, Cassidy from Saskatoon, SK, received a life-altering diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF)—a rare genetic disease, affecting only one in 2,500 individuals. It has been a difficult journey for Cassidy and her family, but Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH) has been there every step of the way to meet her complex medical needs.

“As a mother, watching your child be diagnosed with a chronic illness and manage their condition is one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced and not something I would wish for anyone. Knowing that Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital is right here in Saskatchewan and that we have world-class health care right here gives me such peace of mind as a mother. The days can feel long with cystic fibrosis and knowing we have such an incredible team that cares about Cassidy’s health and a facility that offers everything she needs right close to home is such a gift,” said Kimberly, Cassidy’s mom.

Cassidy’s lungs and pancreas create a thick sticky mucus that blocks her organs. She goes to JPCH every three months to a Cystic Fibrosis Clinic; a four-hour appointment with a medical team including a nurse, doctor, physiotherapist, psychiatrist, dietician, social worker and pharmacist. Cassidy expresses profound gratitude for the exceptional pediatric care she has received at Saskatchewan’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, where the compassionate staff and nurturing atmosphere have consistently provided her with comfort and support.

“Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital is such an incredible place. Before this hospital was here, we were in a very dark, old part of the hospital that didn’t feel welcoming. We also had to travel to different Children’s Hospitals before this one was built in Saskatchewan. The clean and colourful rooms and the way my cystic fibrosis team can bring everything I need for my appointment to my room makes going to the clinic so much easier,” said Cassidy.

While there are challenges that come along with having a rare genetic disease, Cassidy uses it as an opportunity to spread hope and advocate for a cure. Cassidy and her mom started Cassidy’s Lemonade Stand, where they share her CF journey and victories such as the new medication she is taking that helps her symptoms and allows her to feel more like herself again! They have raised $125,000 for CF research over the past 11 years! She is in grade 10, just turned 16 and is excited to get her driver’s license. She loves singing, hanging out with friends, music and is looking forward to her first summer job as a certified lifeguard.

“I’m so grateful for my team at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital for the way they take care of me. I get to continue living my life and thrive because of the way I’m being taken care of,” said Cassidy.

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