Jessica Casale, Development Specialist, and Kevin O’Brien discussed St Jude Childrens Resaerch Hospital, the first hospital to research and treat childhood cancer. They told the story of its funding by actor/producer Danny Thomas and the ongoing commitment by volunteers and donors to fund the institution. We began with a reminder of why St Jude was founded in Memphis, a Black child died there after being refused treatment at two different hospitals. To emphasis his commitment that NO child would be turned away for race, religion or ability to pay, the hospital was placed in Memphis. Research is open and shared and treatment is free, no parent ever gets a bill, including lodging and transportation. With eight regional facilities and shared research available at local hospitals, St Jude welcomes the ‘sickest of the sick’ kids to Memphis. Kevin discussed his family’s experiences at the hospital when his daughter was diagnosed with a rare tumor and how they welcomed her and her mother, allowing her to stay a ‘kid’ despite her medical care. While she was not able to beat her disease, Kevin has seen examples of her ground-breaking treatment today and remains a part of their staff and family. We discussed the ‘Country Cares for Kids’ campaign and the upcoming 92.5 XTU Radiothon, December 8th and 9th.
For more information about St Jude visit STJude.org