The signs on their backs said it all. A simple but gratifying phrase graced the backs of participants in the St. Jude Give Thanks. Walk Saturday morning, simply saying, “I give thanks for…” For every single walker who sported that sign, an innocent young child’s name followed – a child who is battling or has battled cancer or another traumatic disease - making the annual walk that much more touching.
Just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, St. Jude gave thanks to some of our angels on earth in its annual walk. People from all over the country gave thanks and supported the thousands of kids battling cancer or other traumatic diseases Saturday morning and early afternoon. One of 90 cities to participate in the St. Jude Give Thanks. Walk, the city of Louisville helped raise money for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, while also celebrating the hospital’s 50th anniversary.
In honor of such brave little boys and girls, the Louisville walk took place in none other than the child-friendly Louisville Zoo. Sponsored by the likes of Kroger, 97.5 WAMZ, the Louisville Zoo, and many others, the family-friendly event was free for all who registered, attracting a crowd of more than 300 people.
Before the walk, participants were treated to an abundance of goodies at the Oasis tent by the likes of Heine Brothers' Coffee, Krispy Kreme, the Melting Pot, the Louisville Water Company, and more. There was even a photo booth to commemorate the fun. After an emotional opening at the Oasis tent, where a few patient families shared their personal stories on their childs' fight against cancer and their experiences with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the 1.5-mile walk began with some of the animals even coming out to show their support.
The walk ended with a celebratory closing ceremony, which revealed the total amount of funds raised. Thanks to the more than $79,411 (and counting!) that will be donated to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Louisville did its part in keeping our little angels on earth.
For more information, please visit givethankswalk.org.
Photo: Kristen Hamilton
