It started with a lemonade stand when she was 10.
After seeing a commercial for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Taylor Hanscom was inspired to help raise funds for the healthcare institution.
“I knew I wanted to support the pediatric patients and their families during this difficult time,” said Hanscom, 21, now a senior at SJC Long Island. “Seeing the abundance of support from my community after holding two lemonade stands in successive summers, I decided to expand my lemonade stand into an annual garage sale.”
Thus, a tradition was born. Twelve years later, the Patchogue resident has raised nearly $20,000 for St. Jude.
Helping in the Field of Healthcare
Hanscom, a nursing major, attributes part of her interest in the field of healthcare to her work with St. Jude.
“Being able to help this organization has inspired me in a multitude of ways and has concurrently grown my passion for nursing,” said Hanscom, president of SJC Long Island’s student-run, service-based club Project Sunshine, which aims to bring happiness to pediatric patients across the United States.
“Through this initiative, I am not only able to support St. Jude, but also provide my community with affordable items,” she continued. “I have been able to meet various individuals throughout the years who have shared their own challenges with cancer. Hearing these stories has acted as further inspiration and motivation to support this organization.”
This summer, Hanscom hosted her last garage sale, raising more than any of her previous events with a total of $3,000.
“As I embark on my future career, I hope to continue to support St. Jude in a different capacity, as I may not have the time necessary to commit to the annual sale,” said Hanscom, who served an externship with Northwell Health this summer and who is considering a career in pediatrics once she graduates.
And while her efforts help support the children’s hospital, it’s the many individuals there that will continue to inspire Hanscom in all she does.
“The many patients and families at St. Jude reflect the ability to remain strong and resilient during challenging times,” Hansom said. “I hope my contributions will support numerous families and provide funds to continue the research this hospital conducts.”
