St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a leading institution dedicated to advancing cures and treatments for pediatric catastrophic diseases, particularly cancers such as leukemia. Founded in 1962 by entertainer Danny Thomas, the hospital operates as a nonprofit medical corporation with a mission that no child should die in the dawn of life.

The hospital's comprehensive approach encompasses cutting-edge research, innovative treatments, and a commitment to providing free care to children worldwide. As a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, St. Jude brings together physicians and scientists from diverse fields into five multidisciplinary research programs.

These programs aim to drive fundamental scientific discoveries in the biology of pediatric cancer, translate them into treatments and cures, and determine how to help survivors lead longer, healthier lives.

Clinical trials are a cornerstone of St. Jude's research and treatment strategy. Nearly 60% of children with newly diagnosed cancer are enrolled in a treatment trial at the time of diagnosis, with 90% of those enrollments being studies initiated by St. Jude investigators.

Treatments developed at St. Jude have significantly increased the overall survival rate of children with cancer to more than 80%, and for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), to more than 90%.

Location and Affiliate Clinics

In addition to its primary location in Memphis, St. Jude operates affiliate clinics across the United States, providing comprehensive care and increased access to clinical trials.

• Memphis, TN, USA – primary location
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Huntsville, Alabama
• Johnson City, Tennessee
• Peoria, Illinois
• Shreveport, Louisiana
• Springfield, Missouri
• Tulsa, Oklahoma

International Collaborations and Humanitarian Efforts

St. Jude's commitment to global health is evident in international collaborations. For example, the hospital has worked with the Children's Cancer Center of Lebanon in Beirut, established in 2002, to enhance pediatric cancer care in the region.

During the conflict in Ukraine, St. Jude facilitated the evacuation of Ukrainian children with cancer to receive treatment in the United States, demonstrating dedication to providing critical medical care amidst humanitarian crises.

Funding and Operations

Funded primarily through donations, St. Jude's operational costs average $1.7 million per day, yet families are never billed for services.

In the 2021 fiscal year, the hospital received $2 billion in donations, underscoring widespread support for its mission. The fundraising organization ALSAC has raised over $2.5 billion in 2024.

Impact and Mission

Through its unwavering dedication to research, treatment, and global collaboration, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital continues to lead the fight against pediatric catastrophic diseases. It ensures that every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong.