St. Jude Honors Mickey and Lee Segal with its Founder’s Award

On Saturday, November 8, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital held its second biennial Evening of Hope Gala in Los Angeles. For only the second time since the passing of founder Danny Thomas, St. Jude recognized Mickey and Lee Segal with the charity’s Founder’s Award.  The Segal’s received this prestigious award from Tony Thomas, Danny’s son.  The event took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza, in the very ballroom where St. Jude founders Danny and Rose Marie Thomas hosted many fundraisers during St. Jude’s early days.

Guided by the theme “Infinite Light,” the evening celebrated the idea that “within each of us lies a powerful light capable of creating a lasting legacy, much like Danny Thomas.” Donors were invited to use their lights to create a beacon of hope for the patients and families served by the charity worldwide. The room immediately burst into bright light.

Through sponsorships, an extensive silent auction, an incredible live auction and generous impact giving, the event raised more than $5.7 million to fund St. Jude’s mission that no child should be denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family’s ability to pay.