Welcome to Strat Labs’ Changemaker Spotlight Series! This blog series is dedicated to showcasing the inspiring journeys of remarkable individuals who have transformed their passions into purposeful endeavors, leaving a significant impact on the world around them every single day. Join us as we delve into the heart of innovation and commitment, celebrating the extraordinary stories of those who are not just dreaming of a better future but actively shaping it in their journey as a Changemaker.

What inspired the founding of Bamboo Ranch, and what does its mission mean to you personally?

After Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment significantly improved my son’s quality of life in 2021, I committed to helping other children gain access to this life-changing treatment. After 5 years of fighting insurance companies for coverage, he finally got IVIG treatment through a clinical trial, and it transformed his life. IVIG treatments can range from $10,000-$20,000 each and insurance companies rarely cover it. The mission of Bamboo Ranch is to ensure children have access to these treatment protocols for Autoimmune Encephalitis and PANS/PANDAS.

Can you share how Bamboo Ranch is making a difference in the lives of children and families affected by PANS and PANDAS?

Bamboo Ranch is providing financial grants for IVIG treatment to the most severe children with these neuroimmune disorders. In the future, we hope to build a Ranch of Hope for children to receive equine therapy and therapeutic services in a low-demand, nature-rich, ranch environment. Horses are therapeutic animals and can help children dealing with intense emotions and trauma. We advocate for legislative changes to insurance coverage in the US. We have been involved in insurance mandate legislation in Colorado and California with efforts in more states in 2025.

What challenges do you face in raising awareness about PANS and PANDAS, and how do you overcome them?

PANS and PANDAS has been challenged by the mainstream medical community for many years. On December 16, 2024, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) finally acknowledged PANS/PANDAS as a valid diagnosis in their clinical report on PANS. Prior to that report, the mainstream medical community has challenged the existence of PANS/PANDAS and insurance companies consistently deny coverage of IVIG. Research centers at Stanford, Mass General Hospital and Columbia are leading the way for new treatment protocols. The latest research is finally being accepted and more physicians are becoming educated on the treatment protocols of this disorder.

What’s a memorable story that highlights the impact Bamboo Ranch has had on a child or family?

Our very first IVIG grant recipient improved within days of his first infusion. He stated “IVIG made me feel much better. I could sleep and not have nightmares anymore.” Helping children receive such life-changing medicine is the core mission of Bamboo Ranch and we will not stop until every child has access to IVIG.

How do you define Changemaker? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?

A Changemaker is someone who is motivated to stand up to the “status quo” and advocate for change in their community to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I am proud to be considered a Changemaker.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future of Bamboo Ranch, and how do you plan to continue your journey as a Changemaker?

At Bamboo Ranch, our short-term goals are to ensure every child has access to IVIG and reduce the delays in treatment. Long term, we envision building Hope Ranch, which will provide equine therapy services, respite care for families and children’s outdoor activities.

How can readers support Bamboo Ranch?

Readers can volunteer, donate, or share our mission by visiting our website at www.bambooranch.org.

To learn more about the impactful and important work that Bamboo Ranch is doing, or to make a donation to support their programs, visit their website at www.bambooranch.org.

If you are interested in connecting with Christine Case to learn more about her Changemaker journey, you can contact her at hope@bambooranch.org or connect with her on LinkedIn.