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Terri Mauro's Parenting Special Needs Blog

By Terri Mauro, About.com Guide to Special Children since 2004

Does St. Jude's need a new Thanksgiving slogan?

Tuesday November 21, 2006
I'm pretty sure that the folks at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital had their hearts in the right place when they made up the slogan, "Give thanks for the healthy kids in your life and give to those who are not." But as a commenter, Mike, pointed out in response to a blog post on the campaign yesterday, "What a horrible phrase for a program that is trying to do the right thing. I really like when famous people use the fame to raise awareness and raise money. But, be thankful for our healthy kids and give money to the rest is just horribly phrased." Surely St. Jude's didn't really mean to imply that we shouldn't give thanks for kids who aren't "healthy," or that they're just some sort of objects for charity. The ads themselves are adorable, and present the kids who we're being urged to "give to" with respect and appreciation for their unique and delightful selves (I'm particularly digging that ballerina with Robin Williams). But that tag line ... ugh. What do you think about the slogan? Pick as many choices as you like from the poll at right, or click on "Other" and explain yourself in the comments. Then again, if the phrase really bugs you, you might want to explain yourself directly to St. Jude's through their contact page.

Comments

November 27, 2006 at 12:54 am
(1) Cynthia Whitfield says:

Sorry, I just didn’t read anything offensive in the wording. I didn’t think it implied that kids who are not healthy are not worthy, or anything of the sort. As far as them being nothing but charity cases, I didn’t get that impression from it either. I think it was fine just the way it was.

Cynthia

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