The 11th annual KOLA Cares For Kids Radiothon raised $54,019 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital during the all-day event on KOLA 99.9 FM on Friday, August 9.
“KOLA has once again provided tremendous support for our precious patients,” says Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. “We look forward to the KOLA Cares for Kids Radiothon every year—not only because it raises the funds that are critically needed for our children, but because we are encouraged by the tremendous outpouring of love and support from KOLA listeners.”
In addition to a flat donation, those who donated also had the option to purchase a KOLA Bear for $99.90. Patients who are transported to LLU Children’s Hospital, either by ambulance or helicopter, are given a KOLA Bear to comfort them and their family. The Children’s Hospital transport team considers the KOLA Bear to be a vital team member, as well. A total of 506 bears were donated to the hospital through the radiothon.
Patient mom Morayma Aviles visited the radio station during the radiothon to share her son’s story. “The KOLA Bear gave my family and me comfort because my baby was being taken to the hospital,” she said. Ms. Aviles’ son, Giovanni, was transported to LLU Children’s Hospital from Riverside just three days after his birth on November 23, 2012.
Giovanni was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, which affects the large intestine or gastrointestinal tract, and was not able to digest food properly. Fortunately his medical team at the hospital was able to treat him, and he is now a happy, healthy 9-month-old.
“Everyone at LLU Children’s Hospital made this experience the best it could possibly be,” Ms. Aviles said. “Being at the hospital near the holidays, we were even able to experience the toy drive.”
“It’s stories like Giovanni’s that remind us how important something so simple as a little bear can mean to a child, or even a parent,” says Gary Springfield, program director, KOLA 99.9 FM. “This radiothon is just one way we can lend a helping hand to the hospital that does so much for the kids in our community.”
Donations to LLUCH can still be made by texting “KIDS” to 27722 from a wireless phone. Ten dollars will be charged to your phone bill, and normal data rates apply.