Visiting the Danny Thomas Pavilion at St. Jude's, Memphis TN

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Everyone has seen those Christmas TV ads for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital with Marlo Thomas and other celebrities asking for donations. The premier medical facility is a huge fenced off compound located in downtown Memphis. You have to go through a guard gate for a visitor’s pass to enter. So why go without any medical business? To visit the Danny Thomas Pavilion. Thomas (1912-91) founded St. Jude’s. Many of you will recall he was a famous comedian and entertainer. The nightclub comic starred in a few movies notably the 1952 remake of “The Jazz Singer” and played famed songwriter Gus Kahn in “I’ll See You in My Dreams” (1951). He is best known for the long running TV sitcom “Make Room for Daddy” (1953-65). Thomas was also a prolific TV producer of such series as “The Andy Griffith Show” and “The Dick Van Dyke Show.” His greatest achievement will forever be St. Jude’s, the vision he made come true. When Thomas was struggling, he prayed for a job and promised God he would do something for the hopeless in return. His prayer was answered and the career took off. Thomas conceived an idea of building a hospital where no child regardless of color or poor circumstance would ever be refused treatment. Fundraising began in 1951 using his celebrity clout enlisting pals like Frank Sinatra to the cause. Even local Memphis resident Elvis Presley got on board. Ground was broken and St. Jude’s opened in 1962. Thomas selected Memphis because he believed southern children were in the most need. The Danny Thomas Pavilion rests on the grounds. The family is very clear they paid for it themselves and nothing was diverted from the hospital. The lovely structure has a gold dome and inside is a five star point layout. Look up to see the colorful inner dome. There are sections pertaining to the life and career of Thomas and history and development of the hospital. Displays are much better than anticipated. You learn about Thomas’ humble origins, slow rise as a performer (he was no overnight star) and years as a big name entertainer. His movie posters adorn the wall. Tons of family photos and those of Thomas with all his famous friends. There are his numerous awards including three Emmys and Congressional Gold Medal. The rise of St. Jude’s is meticulously detailed with words and photos. Other major people assisting Thomas’ quest are showcased. Lots of patient and doctor stuff. Plenty about fundraising efforts past and present. A section covering all those celebrity commercials. The continuing involvement of his family is highlighted. Marlo was a TV star herself and married to noted talk show host Phil Donohue. Located outside behind the pavilion is the memorial garden and mausoleum that is the final resting place for Thomas and his wife. A statue of the founder stands near the hospital entrance. All is tastefully well done.