Donor turns Thoughtful Planning, Personal Purpose to Build a Lasting Legacy through St. Jude

Kathleen O’Leary has spent a lifetime building a career, traveling the world and embracing opportunities along the way. But for her, the question that matters most isn’t what she has accomplished — it’s what she will leave behind.

“As I reached adulthood, I didn’t have children, so I was looking for a way to give back — a way to create a lasting legacy,” Kathleen said.

Her connection to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® deepened through personal loss. Kathleen lost both of her brothers, as well as other loved ones, to cancer — experiences that shaped her commitment to helping advance research and supporting families facing the unimaginable.

“Cancer research is near and dear to my heart,” she said. “Given my belief that children are the future, pediatric cancer has really interested me, and the work done at St. Jude is just so important to the world. This is one of my big ways of giving back.” 

Kathleen appreciates the global reach of St. Jude, a perspective shaped, in part, by a career in international shipping, logistics and global consulting. The retired executive is especially inspired by how St. Jude shares research discoveries worldwide and cares for the whole family, not just the child facing illness.

She’s also deeply moved by the assurance that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

“I cannot imagine having to face the question, ‘Can I afford to save my child?’” she said. “The fact that families can come here and not have to worry about that is everything.”

Today, Kathleen’s support reflects both thoughtful planning and personal purpose. Along with her ongoing annual giving and volunteering at local St. Jude events, she has also included St. Jude in her will and estate plans — ensuring her compassion and commitment will continue for years to come. 

“I’ve been very fortunate in my life,” she said. “I want to be able to give back a bit.”

This kind of planning isn’t just about finances — it’s about intention.

“To me, legacy is…what am I doing with the gifts that I’ve been given?” she said. “I’ve been so fortunate and so blessed in my life. I’m hoping that my choices will help other people be as fortunate in their lives.”

That intention comes to life through her support of St. Jude. From advancing research to ensuring families are supported every step of the way, she sees the value of the impact St. Jude makes. “It’s not just the illness that’s being addressed,” Kathleen said. “It’s the whole family. . .helping them stay together and supported.” 

Each visit to St. Jude reinforces her decision. As she walked the campus, Kathleen said the feeling was unexpected but unmistakable: “St. Jude is all about hope and joy.”

Through thoughtful planning — and taking steps to put her wishes in place — Kathleen has created a legacy rooted in compassion, purpose and possibility.