Under the new 5-year grant, you will notice a few changes to the St. Jude LIFE study and your visits to St. Jude. But many things will stay the same.
St. Jude LIFE visits will still be about every 5 years. Some people will be invited to complete a few extra tests. These may include tests involving your brain, muscles, heart, and blood vessels.
Everyone will receive a survey to gather information about where they live and the resources they have. This helps us design care that works in real life.
You can always choose whether to take part. Any information you provide helps us learn more about how to help childhood cancer patients and survivors.
We have made changes to help us:
- Use the latest research to inform survivor care and research
- Offer more options that you can do from home when that works better for you
- Save time and reduce waiting between appointments when you are on campus
What will be different
You may notice the following changes:
- Pre‑visit planning
- We will share a draft schedule earlier, so you know what to expect.
- Check‑in and paperwork
- We will transition some documents to share in a digital format such as consents and some surveys.
- We will send text or email reminders with directions, notes about fasting before tests, and what to bring.
- Screenings and tests
- Tests may change over time to match the latest survivor guidelines.
- You will only be asked to do what fits your age, treatment, and health history.
- More flexibility from home
- Some surveys, education, and counseling can be done by phone or video.
- We will offer follow‑up calls instead of extra onsite visits when possible.
- Travel and lodging process
- Reimbursement will be streamlined (for example, direct deposit where available).
- Campus policies
- Visitor and safety rules may change from time to time. We will share the current policies before your visit.
What will stay the same
- Our purpose
- St. Jude LIFE exists to understand long‑term health after childhood cancer and to support you.
- No cost for study tests
- The screenings and tests we ask for as part of the study are provided at no cost to you.
- Travel support
- Help with food, travel, and lodging continues.
- Your care team
- You will see the same friendly St. Jude LIFE clinic staff, nurses, and coordinators you know.
- Your choice
- Participation is voluntary. You can say yes or no to any test.
- Privacy
- Your information is secure and confidential. We share results with you and your providers only with your permission.
- Results and follow‑up
- You will get a summary of your results and next steps, plus referrals if needed.
How to get ready
- Complete pre‑visit forms and book travel with the Patient Travel Department (if needed) before you travel.
- Bring a list of your medicines and allergies, any important medical documents, and health care providers’ names and contact information.
- Follow any fasting instructions we send for lab or imaging tests.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for a full day of movement.
- Update your contact info so that reminders will reach you.
- Sign up for MyChart, if you have not already, and check it each day you’re on campus.
To contact us about your St. Jude LIFE visit, please e-mail SJLIFEvisit@stjude.org or call 800-775-2167.
Thank you for being a part of St. Jude LIFE. Your visit and the information you provide help researchers learn more about how childhood cancer treatment affects survivors during their lifetime.