March 2026 Newsletter
OUR 2026 BOSTON MARATHON RUNNERS NEED YOUR SUPPORT!
Travis, KD, Luca, and Mia are running the Boston Marathon to support children and families affected by PANS/PANDAS, because feeling seen, supported, and believed matters. Their miles are fueled by compassion and a deep commitment to this community. Donate to support the families they’re running for!
Text “GOTRAVIS”, “ GOKD”, “GOLUCA”, or “GOMIA26” to 53-555 to donate!
NAPPA ANNOUNCEMENT: HISTORIC ADVOCACY UPDATE
NAPPA, the National Alliance for PANS/PANDAS Action, announced that PANS/PANDAS has been included for the first time in the Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) through the FY2026 Omnibus bill, marking a major milestone for the community. This inclusion makes the condition eligible for federal research funding through the Department of Defense, opening the door for studies on causes, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. It represents a long-awaited step toward meaningful scientific progress for families, made possible by strong advocacy from military families nationwide. Funding opportunities will open next, launching the first phase of a growing research pipeline.
THERE’S STILL TIME TO JOIN THE STRENGTH IN STAGES PROGRAM
The Look. Foundation, in partnership with United Way of Greater Plymouth County, is proud to launch Strength in Stages, a 5-week program created to educate, support, and connect caregivers of children and young adults with PANS/PANDAS. The program includes four virtual sessions and culminates in a powerful in-person Evening of Storytelling, where experienced caregivers and young adults share their journeys with honesty, resilience, and hope. No caregiver should walk this journey alone and we would be honored to have you join us. If financial circumstances are a concern, please don’t let that hold you back. Reach out confidentially to Barbie@lookfoundation.org.
HELP US BRING REAL SUPPORT TO FAMILIES AFFECTED BY PANS/PANDAS IN BOSTON
We’ve partnered with PPAL to submit two $5K grants through Boston Gathers and we only need 50 votes for each to make them happen. One focuses on community awareness and access to care. The other creates multilingual resources so more families can recognize symptoms early and get support.
You don’t need to live in Boston to vote. It takes about a minute.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: KAYA AND SUDA CHAROENSIDDHI
We are proud to recognize sisters Kaya and Suda Charoensiddhi for their inspiring advocacy expanding PANS/PANDAS awareness locally and internationally. Most recently, they participated in a community event at ACCESS Chinatown, serving immigrant and low-income families, where they shared information and Look. Foundation brochures with 50 families, many learning about PANS/PANDAS for the first time, and are developing translated materials to increase accessibility. Earlier this year, they partnered with a charitable organization in Hong Kong to host a health seminar reaching over 100 participants from under-resourced communities. We are deeply grateful for their leadership, initiative, and commitment to supporting families and advancing community-driven awareness.
SUPPORT JIMMY’S IRONMAN!
Jimmy Smith is competing in the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Western Massachusetts with Team Look. He’s running, biking, and swimming to raise awareness and support for those affected by PANS/PANDAS, a neuroimmune condition that causes brain inflammation and can lead to severe OCD, anxiety, depression, and more. His story is personal, and he’s participating so more families feel seen, understood, and supported.
HEALING GRANTS HAVE BEEN MAILED
The Look. Foundation healing grants went in the mail to recipients across the country. These grants help individuals access treatments that can truly change lives, and to date, we have provided over $500,000 in healing grants nationwide. We are incredibly grateful to our supporters, partners, and team who make this possible. Together, we are sending hope across the country, one grant at a time.
ADVANCING PANS/PANDAS CARE THROUGH COLLABORATION WITH MASS GENERAL BRIGHAM
We were grateful to meet with leadership at Mass General Brigham alongside Cathy Witkos, Jennifer Vitelli, Dr. Susan Manfull, Towny Manfull, Sheilah Gauch, and Senator Patrick O'Connor to represent the PANS/PANDAS community and the families we support. This work advances through collaboration between advocates, legislators, providers, and families to ensure timely, coordinated care and better outcomes, and we remain committed to moving it forward with urgency so no child with PANS/PANDAS is missed.
COHASSET TRIATHLON: REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Run, Swim and Bike to support Look.’s mission of offering Hope, Heath & Support
Join Team Look. for the 2026 Cohasset Triathlon and race for a reason!
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a total beginner, this day is all about hope, fun, and community — all while raising vital funds for children and young adults battling PANS/PANDAS.
Rally your friends, build a team, or go solo — just don’t miss it!
Deadline to register: PLEASE REGISTER THIS WEEK!
SAVE THE DATE: LOOK. WALK 2026
OCTOBER 3RD
Join us for the 2026 Look. Walk on October 3rd!
Boston Common – Join us locally for an inspiring walk in the heart of the city!
Not in Boston? No problem! We’re here to help you organize remote walks, hikes, bike rides, paddleboarding events—whatever moves you! More details and registration information will be coming soon. Together, we are making a difference—ensuring that no child with PANS/PANDAS goes undiagnosed and changing the course of mental health for future generations. Let’s walk, raise awareness, and change lives!
The Look. Foundation is dedicated to changing the course of mental health by ensuring that no child or young adult with PANS/PANDAS is missed.
