CRAJ Fall 2025

Fall 2025 (Volume 35, Number 3)

Rally for Rheumatology

This September, rheumatologists across Canada launched a new tradition rooted in collective action and a shared commitment to the future of patient care. The inaugural “Rally for Rheumatology”, led by the Canadian Rheumatology Association Foundation (CRAF), invited rheumatologists to match patient donations during Arthritis Awareness Month, doubling their impact in support of research, education, and patient care.

By encouraging rheumatologists to match patient donations, and doubling their collective impact, the campaign sparked national conversation around the importance of sustained investment in rheumatology research and education to improve patient care. “Rally for Rheumatology” saw participation from rheumatologists across Canada, generating momentum across provinces and practices. The funds raised will support CRAF’s core mission: funding Canadian-led research, supporting education, and strengthening care for people living with rheumatic diseases.

CRAF’s Executive Director, Dr. Ahmad Zbib, emphasized the impact of this early momentum and the deeper purpose behind the campaign: “We’ve made great progress with treatments for many rheumatic diseases, but we still don’t have cures. For some conditions, good treatment options are still out of reach. That’s why research is so important, as it gives us the chance to change outcomes. Our goal is to build a strong endowment so we can keep supporting research now and into the future.”

He also expressed deep gratitude to everyone who took part in the rally: “We’re truly thankful to the rheumatologists and patients who stepped up this year. We’re excited about what the campaign can help to accomplish in the years ahead.”

Dr. Trudy Taylor, CRA President and a participating rheumatologist in Halifax, reflected, "This campaign provided a new opportunity to work together with patients for the future of rheumatology care, and together we can make a real impact."

With plans already underway for 2026, “Rally for Rheumatology” is set to become a new anchor in CRAF’s efforts to engage the profession and the public in shaping what comes next.

NOTE: To build off of the momentum and success the campaign has achieved to date, the CRAF extended the deadline to participate until December 31, 2025! Join the Rally and visit crafoundation.akaraisin.com/ui/rallyforrheum2025.