Wake Forest Family Raised PANDAS Awareness
The Wilson family continues to support those affected by rare autoimmune disorders in Wake Forest.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Special Needs
The Wilson family is advocating for families navigating PANS and PANDAS after their son, Jay Jay, was diagnosed at age 7.5. The town of Wake Forest recognizes October as the month dedicated to raising awareness for these conditions.
Why it matters
The family aims to provide support and visibility for parents navigating similar medical challenges to ensure they know they are not alone. Their advocacy highlights the need for greater awareness regarding Pediatric Acute-Onset Psychiatric Syndrome.
Jay Jay Wilson is currently 21 years old and has managed his condition through treatments including IVIG blood plasma and IV steroid infusions. Some of his behavioral episodes have lasted up to 8 hours.
The players
Jay Jay Wilson
He is a 21-year-old resident of Wake Forest who has been diagnosed with PANDAS.
Town of Wake Forest
The local municipal government issues annual proclamations to designate October as PANS and PANDAS awareness month.
The details
Jay Jay suffered from recurring strep throat infections during childhood before his parents discovered PANDAS as a potential explanation for his symptoms. The family now works to share their experience to help other parents identify these complex conditions.
Timeline
Recurring strep throat infections occurred throughout Jay Jay's childhood.
The family discovered PANDAS as a possible diagnosis when Jay Jay was age 7.
Jay Jay received an official diagnosis of PANDAS at age 7.5.
October is the annual month designated for PANS and PANDAS awareness.
Culture Shift
Local awareness proclamations mark a transition toward greater public recognition of rare autoimmune-linked psychiatric conditions. This shift reflects a broader trend of families utilizing community platforms to destigmatize complex medical diagnoses.
The town's awareness month encourages local residents to learn about the symptoms associated with these conditions. Families can utilize this period to connect with local support groups or participate in community health initiatives.
The takeaway
Recognizing the early signs of PANS and PANDAS can be critical for families seeking medical intervention. Parents are encouraged to document behavioral changes and consult with specialists to navigate potential treatment options effectively.
Further reading
For more information on support resources, visit the Special Needs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS17.
