Dear Friend,

As we gear up for the new school year here in Memphis, it’s important to keep vaccinations and flu prevention in mind. The flu vaccine is a powerful way to protect yourself and those around you. Diego Hijano, MD, an infectious disease expert, answers common questions about how staying up to date with vaccines helps prevent serious illnesses and protects those with weakened immune systems. 

For families navigating a child’s cancer diagnosis, the journey is often filled with emotional highs and lows and a need for support. Kim Ray and her family share their experience with their daughter Kinsley’s T-cell lymphoma diagnosis, showing how resilience and adaptability shaped her treatment and recovery. 

During hospital visits and treatments, podcasts offer patients and families a comforting way to relax, connect, and learn. Sarah Daniels, PhD, a child life specialist, shares how podcasts can provide distraction and inspiration during challenging times. 

Finally, read how Bohdan, an 8-year-old boy from Ukraine, continues to receive lifesaving treatment far from home. His story highlights the importance of international collaboration to care for children with cancer during times of conflict.

As we step into the new school year, stay informed, support one another, and please share these resources to help make every journey a little easier for those around us.

In hope and encouragement,

Daniel Bastardo Blanco, PhD

Manager, Together by St. Jude™