Welcome to the We CU inaugural newsletter!

A message from the We CU team

We see a world where you control chronic urticaria (CU) rather than it controlling you. We will get there together.

To support the journey, the We CU team will share in this newsletter the latest in CU-related news, insights from experts in the field, and other information that will help us conquer CU together. In the months ahead, we will also give you a look into the lives of fellow CU patients, so that we can all learn from each other.

Please share your thoughts on this newsletter, on the We CU organization, and on needs of the CU community in general. We are also looking for patients and caregivers who would like to sign up for our We CU Hive — our community! If you are interested in sharing your story through serving on a patient council, recording a video, speaking on a webinar, or in another way, send us a note indicating your interest! Both paid and volunteer opportunities will be available.

Do you know someone who would be interested in receiving this newsletter? Share this newsletter and invite them to join the We CU community.

Kristen, Tonya, Jonathan, and Karen

Check your knowledge:

What does the We CU logo symbolize?

Take this quick quiz to learn about the We CU logo and its connection to chronic urticaria.

1. What type of cell in the human body does the We CU logo illustrate?

a. Blue blood cell

b. Mast cell

c. Smurf cell

d. Berry cell

2. What do the dots represent in the logo?

a. Granules in the cell containing histamine and other chemicals

b. M&Ms

c. Pepper

d. Atoms

3. What do mast cells do?

a. Mast cells play a crucial role in triggering hives, also known as urticaria.

b. When mast cells are activated, they release chemicals like histamine, which cause the symptoms of hives, including itching, swelling, and redness.

c. Mast cells are vital to the body’s defense system. They strengthen our defenses and help regulate our blood vessels and organs.

d. All of the above

Answer key: 1b, 2a, 3d

Meet We CU

Executive Director

Kristen Willard

Driven by her personal experience with urticaria and a passion for helping people improve their health, Kristen Willard was part of the team that spearheaded the launch of We CU in early 2025.

Learn why she has dedicated her career to nonprofit health organizations, find out about her love of experiencing new people and places, and meet the special pug in her life.

Did you miss our webinar Debunking Urticaria Myths?

It isn’t too late! Join our team as we dispel common myths about urticaria: Is CU an allergy? Is it only treated with antihistamines? Does CU last for life?

This is a valuable discussion no matter your role in the urticaria community — patient, family member, health care professional, or advocate!

Learn the answers here!

CU News

WHO recognizes skin diseases as a global public health priority

Skin diseases affect individuals of all ages and are one of the most common reasons for seeking medical help, impacting an estimated 4.69 million people globally each year, according to globalskin.org. Yet, they remain disproportionately neglected in national and global health priorities.

This month, the World Health Organization (WHO) passed a resolution identifying skin diseases as a global health priority, an incredible milestone for the global community! This worldwide recognition of the urgency of skin conditions and a roadmap for future WHO initiatives will help address gaps in understanding, care, and research. Learn more at https://globalskin.org/advocacy-1.

What We CU stands for

Our Mission

To empower individuals impacted by chronic urticaria by fostering awareness, educating, advocating, and supporting research to improve understanding, treatment, and patient outcomes.

Our Values

Compassion: We act with care and empathy.

Community: We foster strong relationships and open communication.

Inclusivity: We welcome and respect individuals of all backgrounds.

Integrity: We do the right thing no matter what.

Our Vision

We see a world where you control chronic urticaria rather than it controlling you.