Before today I used to simply send my donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital just because I saw my grandparents do it. Little did I know it takes $1.8M dollars to operate the facility and the two Target Houses on a daily basis.

Last Wednesday I spend the entire day touring both facilities (courtesy of Brizo Faucets), listening to a family give their first hand account of their experience, and even had a chance to work on a doll house project with a tiny little patient. This day, without a doubt, as left a permanent impression in both my mind and my heart.

Every need is anticipated. The children’s medical requirements are great, yet St. Jude’s finds the time, money, and energy to care for the rest of the family, too. There’s even a siblings day to help little ones deal with the many feelings that go along with having a sick brother or sister. Down every hallway you see where various companies including Brizo, Chili’s, Domino’s Pizza, countless celebrities, and generous private donors have donated money towards spaces, research, equipment, all with the common goal of saving a child’s life.

I was given a package of tissue before the start of the day which left me a little anxious about my visit to St. Jude. I did need the tissue, but for a different reason. I was in awe of the faith, bravery, hope, and promise I saw in the children, doctors, and staff. Truly remarkable day indeed. I will never be the same.

I know that $1.8M is a daunting number, but if you can’t give green give red. Donate blood whenever you can. Be blessed friends!