Fifty-four years ago this month, our founder, Danny Thomas, opened the doors to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
A very special diverse group of children joined him — these children represented Danny’s promise that race, religion and financial circumstances would never be a factor in whether a child was treated at St. Jude.
I am often reminded of the lasting impact of Danny’s vision for St. Jude at this time of year. Not only do we mark the anniversary of the founding of St. Jude, but this year, we also note the 25th anniversary of the passing of our founder. And we take time to honor the extraordinary contributions of St. Jude to desegregation in Memphis during Black History Month.
When you think about it, Danny’s promise truly set St. Jude apart from most other institutions at that time, especially in the segregated South. This was a promise that was proudly and boldly kept by all of us, from those who first raised money to build this hospital, to everyone who so generously supports our lifesaving mission today.
So many of you — from all walks of life and all races, religions and creeds — have become an essential part of our St. Jude family. Your caring and generosity keep Danny’s promise alive, funding groundbreaking research into cures and world-class care for our patients whose families will never receive a bill from St. Jude for anything.
But we won’t rest on this powerful legacy. St. Jude doctors and scientists are committed to finding cures for cancer, sickle cell disease and other diseases that threaten the lives of children, as well as enhancing the quality of life for survivors.
We can all make a difference in this important work. Thank you to everyone who participated earlier this month in our inaugural St. Jude Spirit of the Dream event, honoring Black History Month, and those who are a part of our St. Jude Sunday of Hope campaign. I sincerely hope that you all will explore the many ways you can get involved and support our lifesaving mission.
On behalf of everyone at St. Jude, thank you for all you do for the kids of St. Jude.
You, too, can make a difference for St. Jude kids.
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Preparing for a Pandemic
The staff at St. Jude go above and beyond to ensure patient and employee safety throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Read how St. Jude employees collaborate and innovate during this time.
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Working like a dog: St. Jude Paws at Play celebrates six months of canine care
Brittany Reed and Shandra Taylor share their thoughts on how Puggle and Huckleberry have made an impact on the hospital and their lives. Read their reflections.
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Journey to the Jude: Escaping war and poverty in his homeland, chef Johnny Siv develops culinary talents to feed the St. Jude community
After escaping the war-torn nation of his youth, chef Johnny Siv uses food to give back to the patients at St. Jude. Read more about his remarkable journey.
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Tracing Martine Roussel’s independent streak from Africa to the National Academy of Sciences
Martine Roussel, PhD, is renowned for investigations into molecular-level causes of cancer and strategies in developing new treatments for pediatric brain tumors. Read about her journey.
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Chaplain Kimberly Russell uses creative talent to adapt spiritual care board for St. Jude patients
Learn how St. Jude chaplain Kimberly Russell helps non-verbal patients communicate spiritual needs.
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Welcoming all who enter
Janice Ivory has given out tens of thousands of smiles to the patients, staff and families of St. Jude over the last 32 years.
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Celebrating Black History Month
We reflect on our heroes: doctors, patients and supporters who have been a part of our lifesaving mission.
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Journey to the Jude: Inspired by global adventures, postdoc recruiter Deanna Tremblay seeks world-class scientists
Inspired by her global adventures, postdoc recruiter Deanna Tremblay of Academic Programs seeks world-class scientists.
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Pediatric Cancer Genome Project sparks a decade of discovery
Leaders at St. Jude launched a bold initiative in 2010 to define the genomic landscape of pediatric cancer.
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‘Tis the season for science: Elf rescue teaches students fun lesson
Patients in the St. Jude School Program used math and science to rescue stranded elves. Discover how they saved the holidays.
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My Corner of the World: Regina Kolaitis, PhD
Scientist turned liaison Regina Kolaitis of the St. Jude Liaison Office explains the breadth and depth of hospital’s research efforts to a non-scientific audience.
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Physical therapist grateful for her colleagues, opportunities after earning hospital’s highest staff honor
Amanda Curry received the hospital’s highest employee honor for her work with a new mobility program for patients. Discover why she thanks and credits her colleagues.
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St. Jude talent experience advisor extends hospitality to job candidates and their families
From hospitality to human resources: Linda Smith of Human Resources changed careers to help St. Jude advance its mission.
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Longtime employee shares story of personal, family military service
Seven years of U.S. Navy service helped prepare veteran Yvonne Carroll for her role as director of hematology patient services. Read her story.
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Respiratory therapists are vital part of patient care
Respiratory therapists are emergency responders who assist patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Learn more about their role