Einar Gustafson

American cancer patient and inspiration for the Jimmy Fund

Einar Gustafson (August 18, 1935 – January 21, 2001), also known as "Jimmy," was an American cancer patient who became the face of the Jimmy Fund, a charity that supports cancer research and treatment at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts.

Early Life

Einar Gustafson was born in New Sweden, Maine, a small town with a strong Swedish American community. He grew up on a farm with his family, where he enjoyed a typical rural childhood. In 1948, at the age of 12, Einar was diagnosed with lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

The Jimmy Fund

Einar Gustafson, known as "Jimmy"

In 1948, Einar was admitted to the Children's Hospital Boston, where he was treated by Dr. Sidney Farber, a pioneer in the field of pediatric oncology. During his treatment, Einar became the first "poster child" for the Jimmy Fund, which was established to raise money for cancer research and patient care.

The Jimmy Fund was launched with a national radio broadcast on the Truth or Consequences program, hosted by Ralph Edwards. During the broadcast, Einar was introduced as "Jimmy," a young boy battling cancer. The program encouraged listeners to donate to the fund, and it was a resounding success, raising significant funds for cancer research.

Life After Treatment

Einar Gustafson's cancer went into remission, and he returned to a relatively normal life. He graduated from high school and went on to work in various jobs, including as a truck driver. For many years, his identity as "Jimmy" was unknown to the public.

Rediscovery and Later Life

Einar Gustafson at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 1948

In 1998, on the 50th anniversary of the Jimmy Fund, Einar Gustafson was rediscovered and publicly identified as the original "Jimmy." He was invited to participate in various events and became an ambassador for the Jimmy Fund, sharing his story and encouraging others to support cancer research.

Einar's rediscovery brought renewed attention to the Jimmy Fund and its mission. He continued to be involved with the fund until his death in 2001.

Legacy

Einar Gustafson's story has had a lasting impact on cancer research and fundraising. The Jimmy Fund has grown into one of the most successful cancer charities in the United States, supporting the work of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and helping countless patients and families.

Einar's legacy lives on through the continued efforts of the Jimmy Fund and the many lives it has touched. His story is a testament to the power of community support and the importance of funding cancer research.

Related Pages

• Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
• Lymphoma
• Pediatric oncology
• Cancer research