At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, we have a legacy of doing what is right — not what is easy. From standing against segregation to launching one of the largest sickle cell programs in the country, every stride brings us closer to the day when no child dies in the dawn of life.
Since opening in 1962, St. Jude has cared for thousands of children with sickle cell disease — and today, our Hematology Clinic serves approximately 850 children living with this condition. We were the first in the world to cure sickle cell anemia through a bone marrow transplant, and we continue to lead groundbreaking research and clinical trials to find safer, more accessible cures.
Our legacy is shared: exemplifying strength, resilience, and community. Together, we believe every child deserves the chance to live their best life and celebrate every moment.
Join us on June 20, 2026, at The Wellsley in Chicago, Illinois, for the 2nd annual St. Jude Celebrates: A Legacy of Equity gala, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Guests will enjoy a signature cocktail hour, delicious dinner provided by Boka, live entertainment, silent auction and inspiring stories from St. Jude patients. St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases like sickle cell.
For information on sponsorship and volunteer opportunities at this year's event, please contact Jennifer Herrera at jennifer.herrera@alsac.stjude.org.
Location
The Wellsley
504 N. Wells St.
Chicago, IL 60654
Date and Time
June 20, 2026
5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Attire: Black-tie (optional)
Tickets
Become a sponsor today! Sponsorship packages include brand recognition and other benefits.
St. Jude patient Bailey
St. Jude provides comprehensive care and health equality for children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. We tailor treatment for each child's unique needs, improving outcomes for some of the world’s sickest children.
St. Jude patient Bailey
Become a sponsor
By partnering with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and sponsoring this event, you will align your company name with the strong, nationally recognized St. Jude mission and brand, and instill pride in your employees, consumers, vendors and company executives.
For more information on becoming a sponsor, please contact:
Jennifer Herrera
jennifer.herrera@alsac.stjude.org
Stories from St. Jude
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Making History at St. Jude
When St. Jude opened in 1962, Danny Thomas vowed the hospital would treat patients regardless of race, religion or ability to pay. In 1968, Dr. Rudolph Jackson became one of the first Black doctors at St. Jude.
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World Sickle Cell Day
Give a gift of hope this World Sickle Cell Day. Support St. Jude families with a one-time or monthly donation and help advance lifesaving research.
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St. Jude provided a foundation to help Courtney live her best life
Meet Courtney Davis, an investment banker on Wall Street, living her best life while managing sickle cell disease. Learn how St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has helped her exceed expectations.
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Born with sickle cell disease, Za’Mya thrives in care of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Mom credits St. Jude for the life her daughter is able to lead and includes its supporters among her family and village.
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With St. Jude on his team, Emmanuel worked hard and kept the faith on the football field
'Root for that guy,' says Emmanuel's high school coach.
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Spurred by the mission and inspired by a trailblazer, Mississippi doctor gives to support St. Jude
As Dr. Rayford learned more about St. Jude — how it had opened as an inclusive hospital in 1962 at the height of civil rights strife in the South and welcomed children regardless of race, and how it employed and promoted doctors, scientists and staff of color, as well — Rayford knew this was a cause that deserved his support.
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St. Jude patient takes her first steps for the second time
St. Jude mom cheers as Eri’Elle learns to walk again
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Georgia family finds 'purpose in the pain' after losing son at St. Jude
A son’s legacy and a family’s life-saving mission come together in Joshua’s Wish, raising thousands for the St. Jude brain tumor program.
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St. Jude continues to chart progress in how to understand and treat sickle cell disease
Pioneering work in St. Jude labs provides "promising" path to a cure using gene editing.
Get involved locally
Find additional events, volunteer opportunities and more ways to connect with St. Jude supporters in Chicago.
