June 14, 2018

Telethon rings up crucial support for Children’s Hospital

The 35th annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Telethon was held on Sunday, June 3, at Seacrest Studios in partnership with WTVF NewsChannel 5.

From left, NewsChannel 5 anchors Rhori Johnston and Carrie Sharp join Meg Rush, MD, patient ambassadors Jessica Meyer and Lily Paris and Miss Tennessee Caty Davis to unveil the total for the 2018 Telethon. (photo by John Russell)

The 35th annual Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Telethon was held Sunday, June 3, at Seacrest Studios in partnership with WTVF NewsChannel 5.

Celebrating more than $3.3 million in support, the telethon grand total represents the culmination of yearlong fundraising from partner companies and individuals throughout the region. All proceeds benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, the local CMN hospital.

Each June, NewsChannel 5 partners with Children’s Hospital to highlight inspiring stories from patients and families. Hosted by on-air personalities Vicki Yates, Carrie Sharp, Rhori Johnston and Jennifer Kraus, the telethon also featured interviews with Children’s Hospital officials, clinicians and staff. Viewers made donation pledges online, through text messages and by calling the phone bank.

The contributed funds support the hospital’s research, patient programs and other important efforts.

Children’s Hospital is one of the 20 founding CMN hospitals, which was formed in 1983 and ensures that every gift goes directly to Children’s Hospital to help patients and families.