5 Facts You Should Know About St. Jude Before WGNA Hosts It’s 8th Annual Radiothon

As we get ready for our "8th annual Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon" this Wednesday and Thursday, I got to thinking what do people really need to know. So I looked at the St. Jude webpage and found a few of the "facts" that over the years I have found to be pretty important when deciding whether or not you want to donate or better yet become a "Partner in Hope".

Again these are just 5 of so many great "facts" about St. Jude that stand out to me before the radiothon, maybe you should check out the St.Jude Research Hospital Website as well.

1. In 1962, the survival rate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood cancer, was 4 percent. Today, the survival rate for this once deadly disease is 94 percent, thanks to research and treatment protocols developed at St. Jude.

2. During the past five years, 81 cents of every dollar received has supported the research and treatment at St. Jude.

3. The daily operating cost for St. Jude is $1.8 million, which is primarily covered by public contributions.

4. St. Jude has developed protocols that have helped push overall survival rates for childhood cancers from less than 20 percent when the hospital opened in 1962 to 80 percent today.

5. No family ever pays St. Jude for anything.

These are just a few examples of the need, the successes and the mission of St. Jude. There is so so much to this amazing hospital and the reach and scope of their accomplishments is mind boggling.

The only other "fact" that I think you should really consider when you are listening to us this Wednesday and Thursday is that none of it, nothing can happen without your support. Danny Thomas the founder of St Jude said that "No child should die in the dawn of life." If you also believe this than write down this number and call in this week to help. The number to call during the radiothon is, 518-374-2890 or 1-800-339-4673 between the hours of 6am and 7pm.

I look forward to you joining me again this year in becoming a "Partner in Hope"!