April 16, 2024
Paraco’s significant sponsorship played a crucial role in the success of the St. Jude Give to Live Gala, a prestigious event held at the Loading Dock in Stamford, CT.
The evening was filled with joy, and entertainment, including an exquisite dinner, auctions, and a throwback live performance from the ’80s featuring the Rubix Kube band.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was meeting a special guest and speaker, Jake (check his story below), a St. Jude survivor! An incredible $690,000 was raised for the patient families of St. Jude, ensuring that no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food so they can focus on helping their child live. The event was a resounding success, thanks to everyone’s generous support!
Diane DeVivo, Community Relations Manager
Jake Marshall, a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, puts playing football in his top three favorite things. “It’s up there with bacon and my mom”, he says.
When Jake was a toddler, he was diagnosed with ependymoma, a type of brain cancer. His family was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® for his treatment and care. Jake’s mom, Kathleen, remembered a phone call she received from St. Jude before they arrived. “The doctor said ‘remember, there’s hope.'”
Jake is now a 20-year St. Jude survivor and takes part in the St. Jude LIFE Study, with annual visits to St. Jude. In high school, he played varsity football and lacrosse. Having graduated from college in the spring of 2020, Jake keeps football in his sights, in pursuit of a sports broadcasting career. He’s recently appeared on CBS Sports and launched Jake’s Take on Pro Football, in partnership with St. Jude Inspire Sports.
In the picture: Jake Marshall and Diane DeVivo