Let’s end childhood cancer. Together.

Let’s end childhood cancer. Together.

The most important word in that statement is the last word — together.  I am so grateful to each and every one of you who are working together to support the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer, which takes place in 61 cities across the U.S. this month — Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Whether you walk, run, volunteer or fundraise, your contributions make a difference to the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Children like Jordyn.

In 2014, Jordyn — a competitive gymnast — was diagnosed at age 9 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common childhood cancer.  Thanks to treatment at St. Jude, Jordyn is now back in training for the sport she is so passionate about and hopes to compete again. She inspires the athlete in all of us — no matter our athletic ability.

You all inspire me, too. I am amazed by the countless individuals in cities large and small across America who take the St. Jude mission into their hearts and their lives. From Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Utica, New York, thousands of people will literally be taking steps to end childhood cancer by taking part in the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer September 17, September 24 and September 25.  Each person’s effort brings vital awareness to the St. Jude mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

I am also incredibly thankful for the generosity of our National Series Sponsors — Target, Thrivent Mutual Funds and American Airlines — for all they do to make this event possible. The extraordinary dedication of these companies, and of groups across the U.S. who have committed to sending national teams to the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer, is nothing short of astonishing. If you haven’t signed up to walk or run, it’s not too late. Please consider coming to join us for a fun and inspiring event unlike any other.

It is truly wonderful to see people from all walks of life and all corners of our country coming together for one cause. We can end childhood cancer. Together.