“St. Jude went from an inspiration to a personal commitment.”

I grew up in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, and one of my favorite memories is gathering with my family in the living room to watch television.

What always stood out to me was that we could be talking through just about any TV show, but whenever a St. Jude Children's Research Hospital® commercial came on, everyone fell silent. Looking back, I realize that silence was our way of truly listening and connecting with the stories on the screen. As a child, I was inspired by seeing how the hospital was helping save lives through the generosity of donors.

My father worked for a pharmaceutical company and faithfully sent monthly donations to support St. Jude patients. I didn't learn about it until many years later, but he never missed a contribution.

As an adult, I moved to Los Angeles and built a career as a content creator and television host. I continued watching St. Jude commercials with the same attention and admiration, always hoping that one day I might have the opportunity to learn more about the mission firsthand.

That opportunity came in 2023, when I was invited to the hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, for an event with other creators and media personalities.

I remember saying, "Wow, I've known about St. Jude for years, and I'd love the chance to see the work they're doing up close!"

Once I arrived, hearing directly from patients and families gave me a much deeper understanding of the mission's impact. Seeing their gratitude, hope and joy showed me the results of decades of groundbreaking research and exceptional patient care. I was also moved to learn that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

Another part of the visit that left a lasting impression on me was learning more about founder Danny Thomas. He was an entertainer who built a successful career in Hollywood and chose to create a legacy that would help children for generations to come. His vision is reflected throughout the campus, and his story inspired me to believe more deeply in my own path. It reminded me that as our careers grow and our platforms expand, we also gain new opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

That was the moment I realized St. Jude had gone from being an inspiration to becoming a personal commitment.

Since then, I've participated in fundraising events like the St. Jude Walk in Los Angeles. I even started my own team, which has grown to more than 30 members. Later, when I completed a major marathon, I chose St. Jude as my preferred charity.

I've also used my social media platforms to share the lifesaving mission of St. Jude, helping raise awareness and encourage others to get involved.

For me, St. Jude has given me a sense of purpose. It has provided an opportunity to use my voice wherever I go to share hope and support children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases around the world.