Dear Cure JM,

The Cure JM Foundation has always treasured the special role that grandparents play in their families and Cure JM. We hope you enjoy this collection of news specifically for you, our grandparents. 

Best regards,



The Cure JM Grandparent Alliance

Connecting with Grandparents

For ongoing, updated Grandparent programs, support, and opportunities, please visit our dedicated Grandparent Alliance webpage by clicking here.

At the 15th Family Conference’s National Leadership Council dinner in Chicago, Joel Reed earned an award for his unwavering commitment to Cure JM. Inspired by his granddaughter Olivia, diagnosed with juvenile myositis in 2022 at age four and a half, Joel has transformed the Grandparent Alliance.

A former CPA at Dell in Austin, he brings strategic insight to the Connect Group, Steering Committee, Engagement Committee, and Welcoming Committee. His thoughtful leadership shaped the Grandparent Charter and welcomed new members, including Olivia’s maternal grandmother, strengthening our community.

Olivia, now nearly eight, receives care at Dell Children’s Medical Center from Dr. Vy Do in the Cure JM Clinical Care Network. Joel’s family, through the Jeanne V. and Joel E. Reed Charitable Foundation and his son and daughter-in-law’s Austin Walk leadership, amplifies his impact. Joel’s dedication unites our community, uplifting JM kids and fueling hope for a cure.

Monday July 28th, 7:00 PM Eastern

Join us for a powerful Town Hall with Dr. Aviya Lanis Levy, a nationally recognized pediatric rheumatologist and mental health advocate, as she explores practical strategies for managing anxiety and promoting emotional wellbeing in children with JM and their caregivers. 

Drawing on her expertise in narrative medicine and her work at the forefront of JM mental health research, Dr. Levy will offer insights into the emotional impact of living with a chronic illness and share evidence-based tools to help families cope, connect, and thrive—no matter where they are on their JM journey.

As grandparents, your love and support are the bedrock of your family’s strength. At Cure JM Foundation, we deeply appreciate the vital role you play in our community. 

Many of our most dedicated supporters are grandparents like you, committed to making a brighter future for all children affected by juvenile myositis (JM). 

You can support the Cure JM Foundation in several meaningful ways: by including a bequest in your will or trust to leave a lasting legacy, directing your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from your IRA if you're 70½ or older to make a tax-efficient donation, or making a direct donation at any time to fund crucial research and support for families. Find out how you can make a lasting impact by supporting the Cure JM Foundation.

Walk Strong From Home: Our Grandparents Shine

Grandparents brought heart to Sara Echols’ fourth annual Walk From Home in Monroe, North Carolina, supporting her daughter Mackenzie’s juvenile myositis journey. As Southeast Walk Manager, Sara rallied her community with social media, personal invites, and local business support, raising $5,100 for JM research.

Mackenzie’s grandparents, pitched in with supplies and setup, joining grandparents of JM kids McKinley Lovelace and Denver Gamble at a joyful park event with face painting, yard games, and cotton candy. Two JM families traveled over an hour to celebrate with Mackenzie, whose smile lit up the walk beside friends.