St Jude Medical Foundation
St Jude Medical Foundation is committed to supporting healthcare teams and promoting the delivery of high-quality medical care in underserved communities.
We strive to eradicate needless blindness and improve the quality of lives of the underprivileged. Our passionate team of healthcare professionals work tirelessly to make a positive impact and live by the motto, “Caring for others is caring for ourselves..”
Eradicating River Blindness: Honoring President Jimmy Carter's Legacy Through Awareness and Action
The late President Jimmy Carter was a champion of global health, dedicating much of his post-presidential life to combating diseases that disproportionately affect the world’s most vulnerable populations. Through his leadership at The Carter Center, he spearheaded efforts to eradicate debilitating conditions like guinea worm disease and river blindness. His commitment to humanity and his belief in equal access to healthcare led to groundbreaking partnerships and life-changing interventions in Latin America and Africa.
Inspired by his legacy, Centre for Sight Africa and St. Jude Medical Foundation have joined forces to raise awareness about river blindness and related eye diseases. Together, we are committed to improving eye health in our communities and eradicating preventable blindness, continuing the work that President Carter so passionately championed.
What is River Blindness?
River blindness, or onchocerciasis, is a parasitic disease caused by the bites of infected black flies that thrive near fast-flowing rivers. This disease leads to intense itching, skin discoloration, and, most devastatingly, permanent blindness.
The Global Impact of River Blindness
20.9 million people
are infected worldwide.
Over 240 million people
are at risk, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Yemen.
The Carter Center, in collaboration with national health ministries, has made significant strides in eliminating river blindness in several countries, including Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Guatemala.
Strategies to Combat River Blindness
The Carter Center’s approach includes:
– Health education to inform communities about prevention.
– Mass drug administration (MDA) of Mectizan®, a medicine donated by Merck & Co., Inc.
– When necessary, vector control programs to reduce black fly populations.
Mectizan halts the disease by killing parasite larvae, preventing blindness and stopping transmission.
Success Stories
– Nigeria: Four states (Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Imo) stopped Mectizan treatments in 2022, protecting 18.9 million people.
– Uganda: Eliminated transmission in 14 of 17 areas, with no ongoing transmission in the country.
– Ethiopia: Stopped treatment for over 1.3 million people in 17 districts as of 2022.
– The Americas: Countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Guatemala have officially eliminated the disease.
Our Mission
Centre for Sight Africa and St. Jude Medical Foundation are inspired by these global achievements and are actively working to:
– Educate communities about river blindness and other preventable eye diseases.
– Advocate for regular eye screenings and early treatment.
– Partner with organizations to support mass drug administration and community engagement.
How You Can Help
– Spread the word about the dangers of river blindness and its prevention.
– Encourage regular eye check-ups.
– Support initiatives aimed at eliminating preventable blindness in underprivileged areas.
Together, in honor of President Jimmy Carter’s legacy, we can eliminate preventable blindness and improve lives.
For more information or to participate in our awareness campaigns, contact
St. Jude Medical Foundation (https://stjudemedicalfoundation.org/).
Gift of Sight Health Caring Hope Grace Faith Inspiration Trust Aspiration |
Prologue, St. Jude Medical Foundation
Dr. Godwin Stanley Okoye, MD, PhD, experienced a profound transformation that would ultimately guide his life’s work. As a brilliant physician and thoughtful scholar, he initially saw his purpose in solving medical challenges and advancing the field of ophthalmology, neuroscience and mental health. But through his faith journey, beautifully chronicled in A Harvest Season for Every Mind, he came to understand that true healing extended beyond physical health—it encompassed the whole person, reaching into the spiritual and emotional realms. It was here, in the quiet of his soul and the strength of his faith, that Dr. Okoye found his life’s calling.
Dr. Okoye realized that lasting happiness and fulfillment come from sowing the right seeds, cultivating them with patience, and trusting that, in due time, they will bear fruit. He learned that these seeds are not merely material accomplishments but are acts of love, service, and selflessness. He understood that recognizing these “seeds” required wisdom and faith, while cultivating them demanded resilience, patience, and an attitude of unwavering hope. It was a journey of trust—a belief that the path he was forging with God would lead not only to his own fulfillment but also to the healing and happiness of countless others.
Armed with this newfound perspective, Dr. Okoye began watching his thoughts, understanding that they could shape his life’s path, just as Frank Outlaw’s words taught: “Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.” Dr. Okoye started to embrace a mindset rooted in kindness, humility, and the desire to serve. This internal transformation inspired him to turn his faith into action, recognizing that “what lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us” (Ralph Waldo Emerson). It was what lay within him—faith, hope, and a commitment to humanity—that truly mattered.
This evolution led him to establish St. Jude Medical Foundation, a beacon of hope for those who had nowhere else to turn. The foundation became a vessel for his mission: to support addiction recovery, eradicate needless blindness, and bring high-quality, affordable healthcare to the underserved in both the United States and rural African countries.
Through St. Jude Medical Foundation, Dr. Okoye has brought relief to those suffering from addiction, helping them reclaim their lives with dignity. He has spearheaded initiatives to combat preventable blindness, ensuring that simple conditions do not rob individuals of their sight. And he has expanded access to vital healthcare for communities that have long been overlooked, empowering them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. At his core, Dr. Okoye believes that “caring for others is caring for ourselves”.
Dr. Okoye’s story is a powerful reminder that fulfillment is not found in personal achievements alone but in the lives we touch, the hope we restore, and the legacy of service we leave behind. His journey has been one of faith, patience, and the courage to cultivate seeds of change, even in difficult soil. It’s a testament to the enduring power of inner transformation, showing that when we align our hearts with our purpose, we can bring light and healing to the world. Through St. Jude Medical Foundation, Dr. Okoye has not only achieved lasting happiness and fulfillment for himself but has also created a ripple of hope that extends to countless others, embodying the wisdom he shared in A Harvest Season for Every Mind.
Read from those that has received helping hands...
Restoring Hope and Freedom: A Path to Overcoming Harmful Behaviors
In today’s world, many individuals find themselves trapped in cycles of harmful behavior, convinced that these habits are an inescapable part of their identity. Some may even rationalize these behaviors as being intrinsic to who they are, believing that this is simply “how they were made.” However, deep within, there is often a powerful urge and a deep desire to break free from these patterns a longing to return to a life of peace, health, and freedom.
This internal conflict can be overwhelming. When a person begins to accept negative behaviors as unchangeable, it can erode their willpower, diminish their fighting spirit, and strip away the zeal needed to overcome these challenges. The greatest deception lies in the belief that you are powerless, that you cannot change, or that this is the only way of life available to you.
But this is not the truth. You are not defined by your struggles, and you are not bound to a life controlled by harmful habits or addictions. The first step to change is recognizing that you have the strength within you to reclaim your life.
Acknowledging the Struggle:
The journey begins with honesty acknowledging the pain, frustration, and desire for change. It’s okay to admit that things are not as they should be.
Breaking the Deception:
Understand that the belief in the permanence of your harmful behavior is a lie. You were not created to live in bondage to these habits. Your true self is free, strong, and capable of change.
Rebuilding Willpower and Spirit:
Together, we will work to rebuild your willpower and reignite your fighting spirit. This involves developing new thought patterns, setting small but achievable goals, and celebrating every victory, no matter how small.
Spiritual and Emotional Renewal:
For those who believe, reconnecting with your spiritual foundations can provide immense strength. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reflection, this step can help realign your life with the values and purposes that matter most.
Practical Steps and Support:
We will provide practical, step-by-step guidance to help you overcome your habits. This includes creating a structured plan, offering tools and strategies to manage triggers, and ensuring that you have a strong support system around you.
Returning to Your Original State:
The ultimate goal is to guide you back to a state of life where you are free from the chains of addiction or harmful behavior. This isn’t just about quitting a habit; it’s about rediscovering the joy, peace, and fulfillment that comes from living a life aligned with your true self.
Remember, no matter how deep the struggle, change is possible. You are not alone in this journey, and with the right support, guidance, and belief in yourself, you can overcome any obstacle. Let us walk with you on this path to healing, restoration, and freedom.
This message serves as our foundation mission for the support of counseling sessions, group therapy discussions, and motivation for those seeking to overcome addictions and negative habits. St. Jude Medical Foundation emphasizes hope, empowerment, and the belief that with the right guidance and support, anyone can reclaim their life..
Through the support and donations from you St. Jude Medical Foundation provides support to qualified healthcare facilities, including outpatient addiction counseling and recovery services. These services are designed to help individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction through personalized care in an outpatient setting. This allows patients to receive the support they need while continuing with their daily lives, such as work and family responsibilities.
Key aspects of their outpatient services typically include:
1. Counseling and Therapy: Individual and group counseling sessions focused on addressing the root causes of addiction, developing coping strategies, and preventing relapse.
2. Medical Support: Access to medical professionals who can manage any physical or mental health issues related to addiction, including medication management if needed.
3. Recovery Planning: Development of a personalized recovery plan that includes setting goals, building support networks, and creating a sustainable path to long-term recovery.
4. Continuing Care: Ongoing support after the initial treatment phase, including follow-up appointments and participation in support groups.
This program is part of a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment, with the goal of helping individuals achieve and maintain sobriety in a supportive and structured environment.
Gift of Sight Powered by St Jude Medical Foundation
Patients' Testimonies
I struggled with cataracts for years, and my vision had become so bad that I couldn’t even recognize my family members. After undergoing cataract surgery at Centre for Sight Africa, my life has completely changed. I’m grateful to the doctors and staff for their professionalism and exceptional care. Special thanks to St. Jude Medical Foundation for their support in making this surgery possible. The customer service here is second to none!
Living with cataracts made everyday tasks difficult, and I was terrified of going blind. The team at Centre for Sight Africa gave me my sight back. Their care and expertise were outstanding, and they treated me with so much compassion. I can’t thank them enough for their excellent service and follow-up care. My heartfelt appreciation also goes to St. Jude Medical Foundation for their role in my treatment.
I traveled quite a distance to have my cataract surgery at Centre for Sight Africa, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. The doctors were professional, and the staff treated me like family. From the first consultation to my recovery, the care I received was amazing. I would also like to extend my gratitude to St. Jude Medical Foundation for their support in this life-changing experience.
I had cataracts in both eyes, and my vision was deteriorating fast. The entire team at Centre for Sight Africa made me feel confident about the surgery and supported me throughout the process. Now, I can see clearly again, and I no longer need glasses. The staff's exceptional customer service and attention to detail made all the difference. I highly recommend their services!
Having cataracts made my world blurry and difficult to navigate. The cataract surgery I received at Centre for Sight Africa changed my life. The staff was so attentive and friendly, making sure I understood every part of the process. Their customer service was top-notch, and I felt truly cared for. I’m now able to live life fully again, thanks to their expertise and dedication.
Donate
Your generous donations enable us to continue our essential work and expand our reach to help more people. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a significant difference remarkably.
Frequently Asked Questions?
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) by donors about tax-deductible contributions to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization:
A 501(c)(3) organization is a tax-exempt nonprofit recognized by the IRS. Contributions made to such organizations are generally tax-deductible.
Yes, most donations made to a 501(c)(3) are tax-deductible, provided no goods or services are received in exchange. However, specific rules may apply depending on the nature of the donation.
Generally, the entire donation is deductible, but if you receive something in return (e.g., event tickets, merchandise), you can only deduct the amount that exceeds the value of the goods or services received.
Yes, for donations over $250, the IRS requires a written acknowledgment from the nonprofit organization. For donations below $250, a canceled check or bank statement is generally sufficient
The receipt should include the organization’s name, the amount of the contribution, a statement confirming no goods or services were provided in exchange, and, if applicable, a description and good faith estimate of any goods or services provided.
Donations to campaigns run by 501(c)(3) organizations on crowdfunding platforms may be tax-deductible, but it's essential to verify the recipient's 501(c)(3) status. Donations to individuals typically are not deductible.
Donations of goods, like clothing or furniture, are tax-deductible at their fair market value. However, donations of services (e.g., volunteer time or professional services) are not deductible.
Yes, the IRS limits charitable contribution deductions to a percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Generally, cash donations are limited to 60% of AGI, while non-cash contributions may have lower limits.
To claim a charitable deduction, you must itemize your deductions using Schedule A (Form 1040). Only itemizers can deduct charitable contributions.
Contributions to foreign charities are generally not tax-deductible unless the charity is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) equivalent, or the donation is made through a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organization that supports international work.
You can verify a nonprofit's 501(c)(3) status using the IRS’s online “Tax Exempt Organization Search” tool or by asking the organization for a copy of its IRS determination letter.
Yes, donations to donor-advised funds (DAFs) are tax-deductible in the year the donation is made, even if the funds are distributed to a charity at a later date.
Yes, contributions made through payroll deductions are deductible. Your employer should provide you with a record of the deduction, and for larger donations, you may need an additional acknowledgment from the organization.
These FAQs can help donors understand the key aspects of tax-deductible contributions to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
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Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others? Join our team of dedicated volunteers and healthcare professionals in our mission to provide medical aid and support to those in need. Your time and skills can have a meaningful impact on the lives of underserved communities.