September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an annual national health campaign organized by childhood cancer organizations to increase awareness of pediatric cancer and to raise funds for research, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. You can help support the cause this year by signing up for the St. Jude Walk/Run in Memphis on Saturday, September 24, at Shelby Farms Park.

The St. Jude Walk/Run is an excellent opportunity to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Many Memphians would agree that St. Jude is one of the crowning jewels of our city. Their dedication to finding a cure for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases is invaluable to kids here in Memphis, as well as 400,000 children around the world each year.

For St. Jude supporters who enjoy staying active or are looking for an excuse to enjoy some fresh air and family fun, the St. Jude Walk/Run is the perfect event for you. And you can register today at zero cost!

We sat down with the Development Chair of the St. Jude Walk/Run volunteer committee, Leighton Wright, to get the scoop on the event and learn more about what in-person participants can expect.

Leighton has been volunteering for the St. Jude Walk/Run since 2019 and is thrilled that this year’s event will finally be back in person. “There’s nothing like experiencing the St. Jude magic in person, especially here in Memphis where people feel connected with the mission,” she says. Their goal is 2,500 in-person participants for the Memphis event.

Leighton also loves how accessible and family-oriented this event is. You don’t have to be a serious athlete or a frequent runner to participate – whether you prefer to sprint or take a leisurely stroll, you’ll be in good company at the St. Jude Walk/Run. Plus, it’s fun for the whole family – even your furry friends. That’s right – this year, leashed dogs are welcome at the event since it’s at Shelby Farms!

Walkers, runners, and everything in between can also enjoy a family fun center with games, art projects, music, and event experiences inspired by the hospital. You’ll even have the opportunity to hear from a St. Jude patient family speaker and hear firsthand what your support means to families like theirs.

To register, scan the QR code or visit stjude.org/walkmemphis.

By Lucy Modzelewski