Honoring their son, Joshua, The Solomon Family established Joshua’s Wish, a non-profit foundation focused on bringing information and awareness to the very rare and inoperable brain tumor that took the life of their young son in 2009. The deep sadness that followed his death sparked research on Diffuse Intrinsic Pointine Glioma (DIPG) and the family’s dedication to providing more information and awareness to the community. The Solomon’s other son, Caleb, born in 2009, along with their strong faith and passion for service, has helped them heal and honor Joshua’s legacy. Their experience as a St. Jude family, also had an unforgettable impact on their lives, and all proceeds from Foundation events go directly to St. Jude for their brain tumor study program. According to the hospital’s website, St. Jude is “where some of the world’s leading scientists, biologists, and doctors work together to develop treatment and search for cures by studying how both normal and harmful cells grow.” For over 10 years, Joshua’s Wish has raised over $170,000. It also awards two summer internships to encourage students to choose careers in biomedical and brain cancer research.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Joshua’s Wish is hosting the 12^th annual 5K Run/walk on Saturday, September 18, at 8:00 am. Mount de Sales Academy Middle School Student Council is proud to kick off their year of service by helping with this year’s event. They are encouraging MDS family and friends, and the entire Middle Georgia community to show their support by signing up to race or making a donation to the Joshua’s Wish foundation. Click here for more information and to register today. You can race in-person at Tattnall Square Park, or virtually from home. To learn more about Joshua’s Wish and the Solomon Family, click here for read their St. Jude Inspiration Story.