St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is located in Memphis, Tennessee and is one of the world’s premier centers for research and treatment of catastrophic disease in children, primarily pediatric cancers. It was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1962, and is supported primarily by funds from volunteer contributions raised by ALSAC, as well as from federal research grants, insurance, and investments.

St. Jude has treated more than 19,000 children from across the United States and 60 foreign countries. About 4,300 patients are seen at St. Jude yearly, most of whom are treated on a continuing outpatient basis as part of ongoing research programs. It also maintains 56 beds for patients requiring hospitalization during treatment. At St. Jude, no child is ever turned away due to lack of funds.

ESA adopted St. Jude as its major philanthropic project in 1972. Since then, ESA has raised more than $250 million for the kids at St. Jude, and is the hospital’s largest third-party donor.

Indiana ESA members support St Jude through chapter projects, including golf outings, volunteering at radiothons and the annual St. Jude Run/Walk to End Childhood Cancer in Indianapolis, and participating in the St Jude Memphis Marathon in December.

ESA is celebrating 50 years of partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, from 1972 to 2022. Indiana is taking part in the 50/50 Challenge, working to raise 50 donations of $50 each for St. Jude! For more information, contact the Indiana State Council St. Jude Coordinators Stephanie Moore and Sue Bigler.