St. Jude used to have a video library where patient families could check out movies. That eventually led to Trey’s love of movies. We both became big movie buffs, and that passion eventually shaped my career path. In January 2025, I was hired as a videographer for Internal Communication within Strategic Communication, Education and Outreach (SCEO). My job is to help communicate important messages across St. Jude—everything from event updates and leadership messages to employee stories.
My brother is not the only former St. Jude patient and survivor in my family. My stepson, Augustus (Gus), was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in June 2018 and has Down syndrome. When my wife and Gus came into my life, I already knew what it was like to have a loved one as a St. Jude patient, so our connection was meant to be. He received chemotherapy treatments for nine months and has been in remission for five years. Gus is now a thriving, joyful kid.
In addition, my stepsister, Indiana, was treated at St. Jude after an AML diagnosis. Indiana is originally from the Dominican Republic, and she and her parents came to Memphis because of St. Jude and the hope it promised. She underwent a bone marrow transplant and several years of chemotherapy. Because of this treatment, Indiana has been in remission for more than 20 years and still calls Memphis her home.
I owe so much to St. Jude. Every day, I am reminded of the invaluable, lifesaving treatment that made my family what it is today. In a way, it doesn’t feel like it’s my story, but theirs. It’s because of my family that I found my way here and now I’m giving back to the place that gave so much to us. I am proud to be part of the St. Jude mission and continue my family’s journey.
