My birthday is September 4th and I am celebrating my birthday by raising funds to support people living with spondyloarthritis (SpA) through the Canadian Spondylitis Association!

I live with axial spondyloarthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis. I was diagnosed after many years of debilitating pain and symptoms that affected my life in many ways. This diagnosis took far too long, despite the fact that I am a healthcare professional! Once I was diagnosed, I began a treatment journey that has improved my quality of life and allowed me to live fully in managing my disease.

A big part of my journey with this disease is centered around the Canadian Spondylitis Association (CSA). CSA is a registered charity that is the voice of Canadians living with SpA. We provide education, advocacy, support and awareness for patients, their families and healthcare professionals. We are creating a community of patients like me who share their stories and support one another as only someone with this experience can.

As the volunteer Chair of the Board of CSA, my biggest challenge in life has now become my greatest passion! I am asking you to consider making a donation to support our work in honour of my birthday!

As a registered charity, CSA relies on the support of our donors and sponsors to offer all of our programs and services free of charge to the estimated 1-2% of Canadians who live with SpA. Please make a donation to help me reach my goal of raising $5,000 for CSA during the month of September, which also happens to be Arthritis Awareness Month!

 

My ask of you!

In lieu of a gift, dinner or drinks for my birthday this year, I am asking my friends and family to make a tax-deductible gift to the Canadian Spondylitis Association during the month of September to help me reach my goal of $5,000. Please give as generously as you can, and know that all donation amounts are truly appreciated!

The easiest way to give is by clicking the button below to make a donation online. You may also make a donation by cheque to the address below or call our Executive Director, Jeff Beach at 647-919-9430 to discuss other donation options. Don’t forget to note “Happy Birthday Elie” in the comments so we can track progress towards my fundraising goal.

Thank you for considering this request and helping me celebrate my birthday in the most meaningful way possible! Feel free to call, text or email me with any questions you may have! Please also share this with your family and friends as well so we can have an even greater impact! Your support means a lot to me and to the thousands of other Canadians living with SpA.

Cheers,
Elie Karam
[email protected]
514-589-0404

Mailing address for donations:
CSA
2967 Dundas St. West #1280
Toronto, ON M6P 1Z2

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