How did a struggling entertainer’s last $7 help set in motion the creation of one of the most recognized children’s research hospitals in the world?

In Part 1 of our two-part series on St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, we explore the remarkable story of Danny Thomas, the promise he made to St. Jude Thaddeus, and how that promise ultimately became a hospital dedicated to treating children facing cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

We discuss the unusual way St. Jude cares for patients and their families, the enormous cost of operating the hospital, the role donations play in keeping its mission alive, and how Danny Thomas used his entertainment career and public profile to support his dream.

We also follow the surprising connection between St. Jude and professional golf through the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis, including Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Scottie Scheffler, TPC Southwind, and the PGA Tour’s long relationship with charitable causes.

And there are some fascinating side roads along the way, including Marlo Thomas, The Danny Thomas Show, Desilu Studios, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Tau Kappa Epsilon, and even Andy Griffith.

This is Part 1. In Part 2, we continue deeper into Danny Thomas, St. Jude, and the extraordinary legacy that grew from one man’s promise.

MX3 Podcast is dedicated to discussing money, motivation, and relevant events.

What surprised you most about the St. Jude story? Did you already know how Danny Thomas was connected to the hospital and the golf tournament?

Join the conversation in the comments.

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