Rob and Amy grew up with a heart for service. Rob’s parents were St. Jude supporters and Amy’s great-grandfather was president of the Nashville chapter of American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC), the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Rob and Amy volunteered together at St. Jude’s Target House during their college years, before they were even dating. They had no idea then that one day they would start a family, and that their son, James, would be the one receiving help.

James was first diagnosed in 2021 at 3 months old with neuroblastoma, a cancer arising from nerve cells. James underwent months of chemotherapy and was able to complete treatment before his first birthday.

Then, at one of James’ regular checkups, scans showed his cancer was back. Amy and Rob knew relapse was possible, but it was still a shock. Now they needed St. Jude for a second time.

Although James continues to receive treatment at St. Jude, he brings joy and a sprinkle of mischief wherever he goes. “He just loves to get into everything. He loves singing and dancing. His dancing is great because he just dances like nobody's watching,” said Rob.

Amy also reflects on how an act of generosity made years ago came back to them in their time of need.

My great-grandfather helped raise money for St. Jude in its infancy, and now he has a great-great-grandson being treated there. It's people like him that made St. Jude what it is today.

—Amy, James’s mom

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