Thanks to thousands of generous supporters from across the country, the 21st annual WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon presented by Arbella Insurance raised more than $4 million for adult and pediatric cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The inspirational two-day event, featuring stories of hope from Dana-Farber patients, doctors, community leaders, and special guests, has raised more than $70 million to strike out cancer since its inception in 2002.
The fundraiser was broadcast live from Fenway Park on August 29 and 30, from 6 a.m. through Boston Red Sox postgame coverage each night. Dana-Farber pediatric and adult patients shared their stories on-air and took part in special on-field ceremonies, including singing the national anthem, throwing out the first pitch, and serving as honorary team members for the starting nine lineup.
Kicking off the fundraising each morning was a special matching challenge from Rob and Karen Hale, who is an Institute Trustee. They pledged to match the first $750,000 raised between 6 and 10 a.m. over the two days. BJ’s Charitable Foundation and Ernie Boch Jr. made additional leadership gifts of $250,000 and $100,000, respectively. The broadcast also included special appearances from Jimmy Fund Captain and Red Sox player Garrett Whitlock, former Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer David Ortiz, Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, several members of the Boston Bruins, and others.
“The two days of the Radio-Telethon were extremely inspiring and emotional, and are a reminder for all of us about the great work being done by the doctors, nurses, and staff at Dana-Farber,” said John Donohue, chairman, president, and CEO of the Arbella Insurance Group and chairman of the Arbella Insurance Foundation.
“The generosity of Radio-Telethon donors shows the compassion our listeners possess to help those in need,” said Mike Thomas, senior vice president and market manager, Audacy Boston, parent company of WEEI. “It’s an honor to be a part of this event every year.”
“We are proud to tell the stories of hope and inspiration on NESN and thankful to our viewers, sponsors, and partners for their generosity,” said Sean McGrail, president and CEO of NESN.
For more stories about the impact of philanthropy at Dana-Farber, please visit DanaFarberImpact.org.