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Meet The Team Founder/President Founder & President Sonia Whyte-Croasdaile Sonia Whyte-Croasdaile RPN, RSW is a wife, mother, nurse, Registered Social Worker, a trained Relaxation/Life Coach, and the Founder and President of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Canada. She is experienced in ... Read More Board of Directors Co-Chair Strategic & External Lead Sanjay Kumar Sanjay Kumar is a Sariel Entpreneure. His expertise includes Digital Marketing, IT Consulting Services, and Managing cross-functional teams. Sanjay helps enterprises ... Read More Board Member | Medical Advisor Dr. Bruce Carleton Dr. Bruce Carleton has over 30 years of experience in clinical pharmacology and investigating the safety and effectiveness of drugs used in both children and adults. He is the founder and CEO... Read More Board Member Sonia Bromfield-Cornish Sonia Bromfield-Cornish has been a practicing pharmacist for over 25 years, working across various sectors of the industry, including Community Pharmacy, Hospital Pharmacy, Compounding ... Read More Member at Large/Secretary Coleen Lambert Coleen Lambert is a licenced Financial Broker and Coach. Prior to building her own Financial Services and Financial Coaching company in 2020, Coleen worked as a Legal Professional for more than 16 years in various areas... Read More Board Member Phatay Waraich Phatay is a Vendor Manager with TD Bank within the technology team. He has had various roles within the financial industry from procurement and third party risk management to... Read More Co-Chair – Governance & Operations Lead Dr. Karen Worthy Dr. Karen Worthy is a Professor at the University of South Carolina College of Nursing. Dr. Worthy has a 28-year history in professional nursing and has been a nurse educator for 19 years. She received an ADN, BSN, MSN, MPH, a Graduate Certificate in Leadership Studies,... Read More Patient Representative Jeremy Falk My name is Jeremy Falk and I live in Los Angeles. In 2005 I had a bacteria staph infection. After taking two weeks of a 21-day supply of Bactrim (a Sulfa-based antibiotic), my eyes and throat started to feel inflamed and irritated. I went to ... Read More Board Member Dr. Michele Ramien Dr. Ramien is a hospital-based academic dermatologist at the Alberta Children’s Hospital who is board-certified in both Canada and the United States. A first-generation... Read More Medical Advisors Dr. Bruce Carleton PharmD, FCP, FISPE Dr. Bruce Carleton has over 30 years of experience in clinical pharmacology and investigating the safety and effectiveness of drugs used in both children and adults. He is the founder and CEO... Professor and Chair Division of Translational Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics Faculty of Medicine University of British Columbia Director Pharmaceutical Outcomes Programme BC Children’s Hospital Senior Clinician Scientist BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute Vancouver Dr. Elizabeth J. Phillips MD, FRCPC, FRACP, FIDSA, FAAAAI Dr. Elizabeth Phillips is a physician-scientist clinically trained in infectious diseases, immunology, and clinical pharmacology who has established new clinical and research programs in drug hypersensitivity... Professor of Medicine, Dermatology, Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology John A. Oates Chair in Clinical Research Director, Center for Drug Safety and Immunology Director, Personalized Immunology, John A. Oates Institute for Experimental Therapeutics Vanderbilt University Medical Center Professor of Pharmacology Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Coordinators Francene Francis Administrative Assistant to the President Francene has served in this capacity since 2022. She has a personal stake in the organization as a close family member has persevered and survived the onslaught of the illnesses and still continues to live with the aftereffects. Alongside the President, Francene is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the organization and ensuring that the President's visions for SJS Canada are carried out to the best of our volunteer capacity. Larba Ouedraogo Web Developer and Team Coordinator I worked as a Senior Audiovisual Technician before moving to the USA, where I completed a Master's degree in Mass Media and Strategic Communications. I volunteered with different organisations, such as Education Without Borders (EwB). At SJSC Canada, I manage the website development, lead the website team, ensure compliance, and improve user experience. I am using technology for better health outcomes. Jessica Chan Bookkeeper Coordinator Jessica joined SJS Canada as a bookkeeping coordinator back in October 2025. Her role with SJS Canada involves managing bookkeeping functions and preparing financial reports for the board in a timely manner. Jessica is a Chartered Professional Accountant and has 3+ years’ experience in public practice specializing in US tax and Canadian tax. She made the switch and went into industry a couple of years ago and is now working as Manager of Financial Reporting for the health authority on Vancouver Island. Jessica was born and raised in Toronto, but she met her husband and moved to the west coast to start a family and a new career. In her spare time, she loves practicing yoga and going for hikes with her family. Jenna Mistry Patient Support Coordinator TBA Mawish Masud Volunteer Coordinator I serve as a Volunteer Coordinator with SJS Canada, where I recruit, onboard, and support volunteers to ensure meaningful and positive engagement. I maintain structured systems to track volunteer roles and hours, collaborate with program leads to align volunteer resources with organizational needs, and help organize appreciation initiatives that strengthen retention and morale.With over six years of experience in operations and quality within automotive and service environments, I bring expertise in ISO 9001 compliance, internal audits, vendor development, and process improvement. My background in documentation management and cross-functional coordination allows me to build efficient, well-organized systems that support both people and programs. I am committed to fostering strong community relationships while delivering structured and results-driven support. DanaHufe Marketing and Communications Coordinator Dana is a passionate writer and dedicated teacher who has spent significant time living and working in Europe before making Toronto her home. She has extensive global experience in communications within the Rare Disease space, and has previously worked in content writing and design across nonprofit, education, and corporate spaces. Dana strongly believes in the power of communication in inciting change and raising awareness about critical healthcare issues. She is excited to use her skills to contribute to the SJS Canada team, and strives to improve her understanding of the challenges faced by those living with SJS/TEN. In her current role, Dana is responsible for the social media presence, email communication, and outreach for the organization. Dana hopes to connect patients, families, and healthcare professionals, fostering a supportive network that facilitates education and advocacy. Sarah Ahmed Community Outreach Coordinator TBA Advisory Committee Karen Worthy PhD, MPH, RN, CNE, CNEcl Dr. Karen Worthy is a Professor at the University of South Carolina College of Nursing. Dr. Worthy has a 28-year history in professional nursing and has been a nurse educator for 19 years. She received... Read More Vincent Cornish Vincent Cornish, FICB. Vincent is a “Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers”. He obtained his FICB designation through extensive studies at: York University, TMU (Toronto Metropolitan University – formally Ryerson University)... Read More Lorna Baker Lorna has been a Registered Nurse since 1996 and served as a Community Health Nurse from 1997 to 2010. Following this, she held the position of Certified Diabetes Educator at Unison Health and Community Services from... Read More

Stevens -Johnson Syndrome Canada. SJS Support group. Learn about the disease that burns the body from the inside out. Promoting health by providing people suffering from SJS/TEN as well as their families and care givers with access to related counselling, support groups and information programs. Welcome to Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Canada Providing support for survivors, family, friends, and caregivers in the SJS/TEN community Our Mission Our Goal, Vision & Commitment Our Events Register & Help Make Change Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate Upcoming Events Multiple Dates SJSC Support Group Wed, Mar 18 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82137370516?pwd=W More info Save spot Join the Circle of Hope Give Monthly. Create Lasting Impact. Every month, your generosity helps SJS Canada support survivors of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) through advocacy, awareness, and education. By joining the Circle of Hope, you become part of a compassionate community that ensures no survivor faces their journey alone. Whether you give $5, $10, $20, or more, your steady support provides strength, stability, and hope all year long. Join today and make your impact last. Become a Monthly Donor Read More Donate Monthly Subscribe to Our Newsletter First Name Last name Email Sign Up At SJS Canada, we are committed to promoting health by providing those affected by SJS/TEN, as well as their families and caregivers, with access to counseling, support groups, and information programs. Read About the Center Jane G. I am now a part of a group of survivors from many places who zoom and talk, email, and encourage and support each other on a regular basis. It is a valuable asset in my post SJS overlapping TEN day to day feel good moments, a place to gather knowledge, ask questions and listen to others. Peace and love. ✌️🌸 Testimonials See all Donate Today Donate to Make a Difference. Your donation is crucial to our mission of supporting patients and their fa milies who are affected by SJS/TEN. Donate Now

August 18th SJS Awareness Day August 18 – SJS Awareness Day? August 18th is recognized globally as SJS Awareness Day—a day to honour the lives lost to SJS/TEN and to stand in solidarity with survivors, families, and caregivers. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early recognition, informed healthcare decisions, and strong support networks. On this day, we come together to: Remember those who have passed away due to SJS/TEN Celebrate the strength and resilience of survivors Educate the public and healthcare professionals about prevention and early signs Advocate for safer drug practices and improved treatment protocols How You Can Get Involved: Join our annual virtual webinar – Featuring survivors, healthcare experts, and advocates (August 28, 2025 – details to come) Share your story – Help raise awareness through your lived experience Support our campaigns on social media with facts, resources, and survivor voices Participate in our Move/Walk/Run event – Coming mid to late summer Visit us at community events, such as our Canada Day booth in Brantford Become a member – Join our growing community and help us expand our reach and impact Together, We Are Stronger SJS Awareness Month and SJS Awareness Day are powerful reminders that every voice matters. Whether you're a survivor, a loved one, a healthcare provider, or an advocate, your participation helps bring visibility to this rare condition and ensures that no one affected by SJS/TEN stands alone. Let’s continue working together to save lives through awareness, early detection, and compassionate support. To learn more or get involved, contact us at info@sjscanada.org or follow us on social media @SJSCANADA. Activities: Complete all checks for the day! We kindly ask you to post your photo or video as you engage in these activities with #sjscantstopme Follow us on social media to hear survivors share their stories with us Wear blue, the SJS official colour, and encourage others to do the same. Change your social media profile to blue. Be encouraged to tell someone about SJS/TEN throughout the day Join our virtual/in-person SJS/TEN awareness Move-A-Thon Survivors can get together, within a virtual space, with a facilitator and share their experience and support each other. Please feel free to spread the word or distribute SJS awareness materials within the community

Testimonials I am now part of a group of survivors from many places who zoom and talk, email, and encourage and support each other on a regular basis. It is a valuable asset in my post SJS overlapping TEN day-to-day feel-good moments, a place to gather knowledge, ask questions, and listen to others. Peace and love. ✌️🌸 Jane G. I experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) in March 2005. I discovered Sonia’s ‘SJS Canada Support Group’ in 2020. SJS is scary, and the long-term symptoms af fect victims diff erently. For me, it’s mostly been an ongoing difficulty with my eyes. Many victims experience SJS much more intensely. SJS Can is a place for survivors and/or guardians to be heard, ask questions, share experiences, and feel safe. It reminds us we’re not alone in this fight and that brighter days are ahead. I greatly appreciate the availability and consistency of Sonia’s group. I respect and am grateful for the work Sonia puts into moving the group and thus SJS awareness forward. Sonia is an example of professionalism and commitment and I really appreciate the community and fellowship her group offers. Jeremy F. My name is YC and I experienced Steven's Johnson's Syndrome (SJS) in November 2019. I discovered Sonia’s ‘SJS Canada Support group in 2021. When I was first diagnosed with SJS, I thought it was something short term and that I would be able to fully recover and resume my life as normally as before. I soon realized that I may be dealing with long term/permanent issues. SJS Canada support group has helped me cope with my diagnosis and have provided valuable information pertaining to treatment and advice. It has been wonderful getting to know the members of the group and hearing their stories. Sonia’s efforts in organizing the meetings and finding guest speakers are greatly appreciated. YC In 2014 at the age of 52 I was hospitalized due to an allergic reaction to a medication which caused my immune system to go out of control and ultimately diagnosed as Stevens Johnson Syndrome. It was so bad that I was not expected to survive but with excellent medical intervention and a brilliant ophthalmologist and surgeries, 7 years later I still have my vision although the trauma of SJS will always be there. I'm grateful for all the support I have received from the SJS TENS Grp of Canada and the information they continually provide. It's a very rare disease and can be life threatening but I am proof that it can be beaten. Paul RG I have learned so much about the SJSCA Support group. I was very hurt learning about the ordeal the founder, my friend and former classmates Sonia Crossdale went through. Mrs Crossdale a strong woman of God be bless and continue the fight in Jesus's name. Marlene A. Hi Sonia, one thing I have learned through this journey is that Angels are all around us. You may not see them but they show themselves when needed. Thank you for all you have done. Dennis P.

Volunteer CONSIDER BECOMING A PART OF OUR VOLUNTEER TEAM TODAY. Our volunteers are exceptional. SJS Canada is very thankful for the great work that our volunteers do. Without volunteers, we could not exist. We always seek volunteers to join our team and help us bring awareness to this deadly disease. Volunteer Application Showing Appreciation to Our Volunteers MAY 2019 Showing Appreciation to Our Volunteers MAY 2018

Blog When a Rare Disease Is Missed: Misdiagnosis of Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Why It Matters Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are rare, life-threatening reactions, most often triggered by medications. Despite their severity, early SJS/TEN is frequently misdiagnosed, delaying withdrawal of the offending drug and appropriate care. For a condition where hours and days matter, misrecognition can significantly worsen outcomes. As we recognize Rare Disease Month, it is important to examine why SJS/TEN is so often missed, what it is common Feb 18 3 min read Fueling the Fight: Nutrition and Physical Recovery After SJS/TEN Recovery from Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) does not end when the skin stops blistering. For many survivors, the weeks and months after hospitalization are defined by rebuilding strength, healing wounds, and restoring physical function. Two pillars of this recovery, nutrition and physical rehabilitation, are often under-discussed, yet they are central to healing. This post explores what research and clinical guidance tell us about how f Jan 8 4 min read Prevention Starts with Awareness: Reducing the Risk of Severe Drug Reactions Every October, Canadian Patient Safety Week reminds us of the importance of preventing harm before it happens. For rare but serious conditions like Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), prevention means reducing risk for everyone: by improving drug safety, recognizing early signs, and responding quickly when reactions occur. While we cannot always predict who will develop them, greater awareness can help reduce the risk. Understanding the Risk Nov 18, 2025 3 min read Recognizing and Addressing SJS/TEN in Skin of Color Stevens–Johnson yndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, life-threatening skin reactions that can affect anyone.... Oct 9, 2025 2 min read August Is Global SJS Awareness Month: The Power of Awareness and What You ShouldKnow Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are rare but devastating drug reactions that can quickly escalate... Aug 14, 2025 3 min read Dr. Karen Worthy Story Stronger Than the Storm of SJS/TEN: A Nurse Educator’s Survival, Faith, and Renewal Karen Worthy, Ph.D., MPH, RN, CNE, CNEcl University... Jul 24, 2025 7 min read 1 2 3 4 5

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Survivor's Stories We would be honoured to share your experience as a beacon of support and unity. Sonia's City TV Interview Julie’s story Meet Julie who miraculously survived SJS/TEN. YC’s story I was a completely healthy individual until I got the flu vaccine... Jeremy’s story I had a bacterial infection in 2005. After 13 days of taking antibiotics, I developed... Kathleen’s story My name is Kathleen, and I am from Washington, USA, just north of... Anastasia’s Story I was diagnosed with TEN in early 2016 when I was 28 years old. I was 5th grade... Jane’s story My name is Jane Grady and I’m an SJS/TEN survivor. I was prescribed a medication ... Jennifer’s Story My name is Jennifer Lane. I have just turned 48, and this is my SJS/Ten story. It all... Bruce’s Story Late February 2005, I developed symptoms of fever, headache, and... Kim’s Story The impact of Stevens Johnson Syndrome affects each victim differently depending on... Dr. Karen's Story Karen Worthy, Ph.D., MPH, RN, CNE, CNEcl University of South Carolina, College of Nursing Professor...

Active Campaigns SJS Canada Virtual “Move-a-Thon” Fundraiser 2024 Register Here Join the SJS Move-a-Thon 2024 Fundraiser: Move for Those Who Can't From August 16-19, we invite you to be a part of something truly meaningful. Across Canada and the United States, people will be walking, running, or biking to support survivors of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). These rare, but devastating skin conditions change lives forever. Together, we can help them on their journey to recovery. Move for Those Who Can't Imagine the unimaginable pain of your skin burning from the inside out. This is the reality for those suffering from SJS/TEN. Many survivors are left with lifelong consequences that make it difficult or impossible to move freely. By participating in the SJS Move-a-Thon, you are not just moving your body; you are moving hearts and minds towards a cause that needs your support. Why Participate? Your participation in the Move-a-Thon sends a powerful message of solidarity and hope to survivors of SJS/TEN. Every step you take, every mile you bike, directly contributes to providing survivors with essential resources such as supportive counseling, educational sessions, and genetic testing through partnerships with health professionals. Your efforts help to rebuild lives and restore hope. Join us in this journey of compassion and action. Let’s come together to make a tangible difference. Your support will provide survivors with the care and support they desperately need, showing them they are not alone. How You Can Help: Participate: Walk, run, step, bike or move from August 16-19. Donate: Make a secure donation and help us reach our goal (campaign ends Sept, 2024) Spread the Word: Follow us on social media for updates and share our cause with your community. Together, we can bring awareness to SJS/TEN, support survivors, and make a real difference. Let’s move for those who can't. Join the SJS Move-a-Thon and be a part of a movement that changes lives. WE THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR SUPPORT. Join us in the fight against the disease that burns the body from the inside out because TOGETHER, WE ARE STRONGER . Contact Us Help us on this fight! Donate Now

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