Caitlin Adkins

Caitlin Adkins is a sixth-grader and attends L.F. Addington Middle School in Wise, VA. Caitlin is also a volunteer spokesperson for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN.

At only 8 years old, Caitlin was diagnosed with bone cancer and sent to St. Jude’s with an inoperable tumor. For one year, she was subjected to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and many surgeries. “I am a walking miracle, and I owe it to St. Jude,” she said.

When the hospital asked her to share her story to help raise funds and awareness, Caitlin was quick to do so, “I know that every dollar I raise will go toward saving lives.”

Caitlin has been featured in St. Jude literature, posters, and videos, and has appeared on behalf of the hospital in national magazines and on network television. She represents St. Jude at national fund-raising events, and helps organize local events such as silent auctions to collect donations. Caitlin also knits scarves, a skill she learned during her time in the hospital, and auctions them to give the proceeds to St. Jude.

“They gave me back my life, and I will never do enough to repay what they did for me,” said Caitlin, “I want all children who are diagnosed with cancer to be as lucky as I have been.”