On October 31, 2011, George P. Schleyer passed away. One of the most important people in my life left the world, and I never got my chance to say goodbye. He was one of the most selfless, generous, and kindhearted people ever to grace my presence. Upon his departure in death, he left a presence unable to ever be filled. However, he also left a legacy engrained by his virtues and the patron saint of lost causes. In his long life, my grandfather took the time to deliver St. Jude medals to people going through hardships or enduring sickness. These medals represented hope, courage, and the strength to conquer their demons. When my grandfather passed away, I received my very own St. Jude medal. For years it only remained as my last connection to the man who I strived to be.

Four and a half years have now passed since I lost my grandfather. So much has changed in my life, including myself as a person. The one thing that has't changed is the golden St. Jude necklace hanging around my neck. Its meaning, however, has taken on much more.

Last year, I joined the Zeta-Theta chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon on campus. During my new member process I learned all about the history, symbols, and important members of the fraternity. Although I found everything to be very interesting, there was one thing that really caught my attention. All philanthropy efforts done by TKE were to benefit the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The hospital was actually founded by frater Danny Thomas of TKE. The medal that rested on my chest no longer was solely a connection to my grandfather, but also to all of the sick children at St. Judes. From that point forth, my life took on a greater meaning.

Let's shift away from my own personal life for a moment, and focus on the important things. Focus on the children of the world who are battling a disease. Focus on the children that have spent more time in the hospital than their home. Focus on the children that are never going to get the chance to grow up. There is no need for statistics when the issue is cut and clear. These children need our help!

I invite all of you to join me in the stand to help these children. We have the potential and power to ensure that they receive all the help possible at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. It is bad enough that families have a child with terminal illness, but even more so that they do not have the funds to help care for their child. Families do not have to pay a cent out of their pocket for any costs associated with the healthcare received at St. Jude. For many, that is truly a blessing in itself. This hospital, and what it stands for, is absolutely beautiful.

As you go about your daily life, remember how blessed you truly are. You are healthy and able to pursue your dreams. Unfortunately, there are children all over that are not nearly as lucky. However, they are not lost causes. There is and always will be hope. So, consider donating your time and money to such an amazing cause. You never know the lives you can touch with your efforts.

You can learn more about the hospital at https://www.stjude.org.

Any donations would be greatly appreciated in supporting TKE's commitment to St. Jude at http://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=3851072&f...