2013 Telethon Celebrates Miracles
CMNH Telethon Celebrates 30th Anniversary
June 2 marked the 30th anniversary of the News10NBC Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) Telethon, a meaningful occasion when Golisano Children's Hospital supporters, patients, families, physicians, and staff gather to share stories of miracles with the community.
Presented by Tops Friendly Markets for the second consecutive year, this year's Telethon recognized the many donors and events this year that helped raise $4,030,578, with $65,000 raised in new pledges made by phone. Phones were ringing off the hook as former News10NBC anchor Rich Funke and his co-hosts, Brett Davidsen and Lia Lando, spoke with many inspiring guests, including this year's five courageous Miracle Kids and their families, former Miracle Kids, pediatricians, CMNH sponsors, and more. 2013 Miracle Kid, Anna Biss, stole the show with her sense of humor and "blah blah" doll - a special stuffed animal that has appeared with Anna at every event, including her Miracle Kid photo shoot and this year's Miracle Luncheon.
Physicians, nurses, and a large group of Golisano Children's Hospital's CMNH sponsors took turns manning the phones throughout the event. Representatives from Tops Friendly Markets, Walmart, Genesee Division Kiwanis, Sam's Club, RE/MAX Plus, Finger Lakes Division Kiwanis, and Abbott's Frozen Custard, all played a great role in the Telethon's success.
The network also showcased exciting construction footage and multiple renderings of the future children's hospital. Our long-time friend Rich Funke shared video with Telethon viewers of an exclusive tour of the construction site, allowing them to have a better understanding of where different units will be once it's complete.
"Partnering with the News10NBC team for the last 30 years has been an absolute privilege and pleasure," said Betsy Findlay, director of Advancement, special events and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. "Their commitment to Telethon was demonstrated when, despite being on medical leave, Gordon, Telethon producer for the last 29 years, made an appearance at the end of the night. He only allowed one of the past 30 telethons to happen without him being there, and that was when he had undergone major surgery. It truly shows how much helping Golisano Children's Hospital and the kids in our community means to their network."
Special thanks to Tops Friendly Markets for serving as Presenting Sponsor and to Wisteria Flowers and Gifts, Abbott's Frozen Custard and IHOP for providing incentives during the Telethon.