Why we Run, Swim & Bike

In 1913, a group of nurses organized an open-air, children’s-only clinic on the lawn of the old Parkland Hospital.  Now, 95 years later, what started as a small step toward making life better for children has grown into one of the largest, most comprehensive children’s hospitals in the United States.  With more than 360,000 patient encounters at Children’s each year, and in excess of $30 million provided in uncompensated care annually, parents from across the U.S. can rest assured that there is a place they can turn to when their most precious resources are in their greatest time of need. 

Children’s Medical Center has not only become a vital part of the Dallas/Ft. Worth community, but its reputation, research and specialty programs are impacting the lives of children everywhere.  Programs like the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD), which is nationally recognized for its research and treatment of pediatric cancer and blood disorders. The program is one of only twenty nationwide approved for experimental pediatric cancer treatment and it is also one of the most active members of the Children's Oncology Group (COG), which develops national treatment protocols for children with cancer.

Moreover, other programs exist like Family Services, which embrace the disciplines of Social Work, Child Life and Pastoral Care, helping families cope with a child's illness or injury.  Child Life specialists work with families and children to ensure they understand the purpose and techniques of their treatment in order to help kids have an anxiety-free hospital experience. Family Wellness is another vital program that is a proactive approach to caring for kids.  Its programs specifically help asthma, diabetes and obesity patients improve their quality of life and reduce both the short and long-term affects of these diseases.  Under the Family Wellness umbrella is The Asthma Management Program which is certified by the Joint Commission for Disease-Specific Care and the first program in Texas to be given this award.  Also included is the Diabetes Self-Management Education Program recognized by the American Diabetes Association and one of only three pediatric programs of its kind recognized in Texas.  The Dean Foods L.E.A.N. (Lifestyle Exercise And Nutrition) program provides intensive weight management therapy for children and their parents, with pediatric nutrition experts that educate participants on basic healthy living, eating properly and importance of regular exercise.

 In order for this kind of programming to develop and grow, Children’s Medical Center needs corporations, the community, and individuals to help.  The TX TOUGH Tour is a vehicle enabling everyone, young or old, athletic or non-athletic, male or female, to make the difference, and to play a part in helping make life better for the thousands of kids treated at Children’s every year.  That’s why we Run, Swim & Bike!  TX TOUGH is ALL inclusive!  Don’t like to Run?  Then try swimming or biking. Don’t like to Swim or Bike?  Then try our 5K Walk/Run. If you are really competitive…then participate in ALL of them.  All of us can make a difference by pledging to raise money for Children’s and participating in the stage(s) that suit us best!

To find out more about Children’s Medical Center, CLICK HERE.  If you want to start a team or want to learn more about the Tour, CLICK HERE.  To make a donation to someone participating or to the general Tour fund, CLICK HERE.




The One For Children