On February 4, 1962, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital opened its doors in Memphis, TN  with a promise to help victims of childhood cancer regardless of race, religion, or national origin. Since then the hospital has treated thousands of children from all over the world, and has played a vital role in increasing the survival rate of children diagnosed with cancer to more than 80%. And in more than five decades of operation, St. Jude has provided its services to children and their families for free.

As the CEO of St. Jude’s fundraising arm (ALSAC) and the son of one of its founders, Richard Shadyac knows a thing or two about the past and present of St. Jude Hospital. In our conversation he explains the positive impact that St. Jude Hospital has had across the world and how actor Danny Thomas’ promise to the patron saint of lost causes became a reality.

We decided to launch this episode so close to Thanksgiving because we are thankful for the love and generosity shown by the people who established St. Jude in 1962, as well as those who continue to help the hospital thrive in 2016. We are also grateful to all of our listeners, whose support and feedback have helped make The Road to Now a successful endeavor. We hope that you all have a great Thanksgiving holiday.

Links:
–Richard Shadyac’s profile on St. Jude website
-“Our History” from St. Jude website
-Richard Shadyac on twitter