Kentucky Man’s Epic Climb For St. Jude: A Fundraising Success Story

Last October, Brandon Cox flew halfway across the world to do something he can't do in his hometown of Owensboro, Kentucky. He flew to the African nation of Tanzania to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro and he did for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Brandon has had a life-long infatuation with climbing mountains. It's likely that search engine reference point that ultimately made his social media algorithm feed him a recruitment advertisement for St. Jude. See, St. Jude has a long history of walks, runs, marathons and more. But, in 2024, the Memphis-based children's research hospital upped its 'fundraising experience' game dramatically with the chance to climb 'Kili.'

Brandon inquired about the exploration and immediately signed up. His mission? To raise the minimum $12,000 required. Well, he did it, flew off to Africa, and embarked on an 8-day climb of the highest, free-standing mountain in the world. He was joined by five other climbers, who jumped on board, collected money for St. Jude, and raised enough money to make that once-in-a-lifetime climb.

While the climb was a grueling test of physical and mental endurance and will, the crew successfully made it to the top and rolled out that St. Jude banner for an epic and inspiring photo.

Today, Brandon joined the annual WBKR Window World St. Jude Radiothon to share the highlights of his journey, what he learned about himself and what he's discovered about the life-saving work of St. Jude.

He also proudly announced that he was able to raise an impressive $15,150.00!

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If you'd like to become part of the St. Jude family, you can become a St. Jude Partner-in-Hope. It's just $19 a month on a credit/debit card. You can call 1-800-201-8883 or text the word HOPE to 626262. All St. Jude Partners will receive the brand new "This Shirt Saves Lives" t-shirt.

And you'll get this special 'Music Gives to St. Jude Kids' sweatshirt!

Or, if you feel like climbing a mountain, St. Jude is once again offering you the chance to become a St. Jude Hero and scale Mount Kilimanjaro. For information about the 2025 Trek, CLICK HERE!