As participants neared the finish line of the half marathon portion of the 2017 St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, one runner from Kansas was in for the surprise of her life.
For months, 24-year-old Kassade had been preparing for the race — an event that holds a special place in her heart after her younger brother, Konley, was treated at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in 2006. Sadly, despite the tireless efforts of St. Jude doctors, Konley passed away in 2009, at age 11.
In the years that followed, Kassade and her family made the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend an annual tradition, continuing to support the hospital that treated her brother.
“Our promise to Konley was that we’d continue to support St. Jude, even though our son passed away,” said Kassade’s dad, Russ. “St. Jude has kept Danny Thomas’ promise, and I think that’s incredible.”
When a child is treated at St. Jude, families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food — because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.
As Kassade neared the finish line in December 2017, St. Jude would soon take on an even bigger meaning in her life. Waiting for her in a tuxedo was her 25-year-old boyfriend, Aaron, who had finished the half marathon just minutes before. He was ready to propose.
When the couple first met during college, it didn’t take long for Aaron to learn about St. Jude and the special meaning it had for Kassade and her family. So when it came time for him to find the perfect moment to propose, the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend was the ideal opportunity.
Our promise to Konley was that we’d continue to support St. Jude, even though our son passed away. St. Jude has kept Danny Thomas’ promise, and I think that’s incredible.
“St. Jude is all about the kids,” said Aaron. “It’s great to be involved with an organization that gives and gives to so many people.”
And just seconds after Kassade crossed the finish line, there was Aaron. He approached her with a bouquet of flowers in hand and got on one knee, asking her to marry him. Kassade quickly responded with a euphoric “yes” as the couple embraced.
“It meant the world to us that Aaron understands what St. Jude means to Kassade,” said Russ. “We now have a wonderful memory attached to Konley and St. Jude.”
Use your strength for a greater good.
What you do for your health can help save the lives of kids diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Participate in a local event this year.
Read more inspiring stories
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Celebrating Black History Month
We reflect on our heroes: doctors, patients and supporters who have been a part of our lifesaving mission.
-
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.
-
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.
-
‘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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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