Why St. Jude's

When we returned from vacation,  we promised to take some of the grandchildren to Memphis to visit ST. JUDE'S CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL. We feel that it's important for them to understand why our family supports this and other worthy causes even though -- thank GOD -- we have never used their services.

Telling them is important but their seeing, reading, and processing the information makes it more immediate and helps them to remember its impact on the lives of children and families.

While there, l took a few photos in the chapel, which is small but beautiful.

Like all mothers,  I hope to never visit with a patient but am grateful that it is there for parents whose children face the horrible fear of grave illness.

I remember only too well the heart-wrenching blow of being told that my mom had cancer, but eventually I could come to terms with it knowing she had lived a full, happy life. Not so with childhood cancer.

And so, teaching our little family that we can play a small part in helping the families who must come to ST. JUDE'S with a very difficult prayer and a glimmer of hope has become especially important.

There is beauty here, in this quiet place, but beauty exists everywhere at ST. JUDE'S.  Just ask one parent.