In 1995, Jason was in seventh grade. He played football, with an eye toward playing professionally one day. “I did well in class so I could be on the field,” he said. When tests revealed Jason had acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a type of blood cancer, his family turned to St. Jude.
Jason’s treatment plan included two-and-a-half years of chemotherapy, and he was one of the first to be treated for ALL without radiation therapy. Jason successfully beat his cancer and, in the process, found a new calling in life. During treatment, he had a lot of questions about what was happening to him, and he realized he had a talent for science. “I started to think I could help others who might be in this position, but from the other side if I decided to become a doctor,” he said.
Jason Schwartz, MD, PhD
After medical school and a residency in pediatrics, Jason returned to St. Jude in July 2014 as a clinical fellow. Staying active is a priority for Jason, and he enjoys competing in endurance events, including triathlons, marathons and cycling.
I love competing against the clock in endurance racing. It’s a fun lifestyle that helps maintain my health, especially as a cancer survivor.
For the past two years, Jason has been a part of the St. Jude Ride Committee and has helped to organize the St. Jude employee team. “St. Jude plus endurance endeavors is a fabulous combination,” he said. “The St. Jude Ride is a unique event that is helping an institution I’m passionate about.”
Be part of the St. Jude Ride on Oct. 20.
Meet more patients
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Meet Maverick
On NYE of 2017, Maverick went to the hospital with abnormal bloodwork. His family entered the new year facing a terrifying diagnosis: blood cancer.
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This holiday season, our families are grateful for your support
This holiday season, you help bring hope, peace, comfort and joy to St. Jude families. Thank you for your support.
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Meet Julián
Julián is an intelligent, funny boy who likes to play basketball and soccer. His family was referred from Mexico to St. Jude for blood cancer treatment.
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Meet Mayela
Mayela is an extrovert who loves to play and have fun. She recently finished treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.
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Meet Jordyn
A competitive gymnast, Jordyn's aches and pains were thought to be a sports injury. Then, she was found to have blood cancer.
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Meet Ashley
When tests revealed Ashley suffered from blood cancer, her parents were devastated. “Your whole world comes crashing down on you,” said Ashley’s dad.
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Meet Tammy
When Tammy's parents discovered he had anaplastic ependymoma, a type of brain tumor, they turned to St. Jude for their son's treatment.
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Meet Maelin-Kate
Maelin-Kate was diagnosed with a rare blood disease at age 5, but her mom says, "Every day, she finds a reason why it's the best day ever."
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Meet Jazzy
Jazzy is a playful person who loves going to the beach with her dogs. When she was diagnosed with brain cancer, her family turned to St. Jude for help.
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Meet Carson
When Carson's cancer came back, his family turned to St. Jude once again for treatment for an aggressive form of blood cancer.
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Meet Miguel
Miguel is a happy boy who loves to laugh.
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Our Patient Stories
Be inspired by stories about our patients on their journeys from diagnosis to treatment of childhood cancer and other pediatric diseases treated at St. Jude.
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Great Dad Jokes
One of our St. Jude dads has some awesome dad jokes! Watch his son's reaction.
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Meet Tony
Tony wasn’t quite a year old when his family learned he had ALL, a type of blood cancer. At St. Jude, he began chemotherapy immediately.
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Meet Mabry
When Mabry was diagnosed with blood cancer, she was immediately sent to St. Jude. "Everyone here cares about your child," said her mom.