For Immediate Release
Halifax, NS (June 2, 2023) Due to the devastation of the wildfires our region is experiencing, the IWK Foundation has made the decision to reschedule its annual IWK Telethon for Children on CTV until later this summer.
The IWK Telethon for Children is a 39-year Maritime tradition that takes place the first weekend of June every year. This year the theme of the Telethon is Stronger Than You Know highlighting the sheer strength and resilience of patients and families. When we chose this theme months ago, we had no way of knowing how relevant and meaningful these words would be for our region.
“Over the past week there have been moments of great loss, fear and uncertainty. What is being experienced across the Maritimes has had a far-reaching impact that has touched IWK families, staff and supporters as well as many of you across our region,” says Jennifer Gillivan, President & CEO, IWK Foundation. “We know our community will continue to be there for the IWK and for that we are so grateful.”
A tremendous thank you to our broadcast partners CTV Atlantic and Bell Media Radio for working alongside us, both throughout the year and especially over the last number of days, as we navigate this difficult time across the Maritimes.
Thank you to the patients and families who shared their stories of strength and courage, thank you to our donors and volunteers whose unwavering support of the IWK is truly inspirational and to the amazing care team that always shows up for these patients and families.
“The IWK Foundation is incredibly grateful for those businesses, community organizations, individuals and youth who have actively fundraised for this year’s IWK Telethon,” continues Gillivan. “It will be our honour to celebrate and recognize each of you when we come together for the 39th Telethon later this summer.”
We are grateful to our community for standing alongside the IWK. Together, we are all stronger than we know.
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About the IWK Foundation
The IWK Foundation is a champion of excellence in women's and children's health and medicine and works in partnership with IWK Health to support their vision of providing quality care to women, children, youth and families in the Maritime Provinces and beyond. Our donors are passionately committed to making a difference for Maritime families, contributing more than $18 million in support of the most urgent care priorities at the IWK last year. Funds raised also support the IWK's global leadership in research and knowledge sharing, which in turn improves lives worldwide. Visit www.iwkfoundation.org for more information.
For more information, please contact:
Lesley Gaum
Director, Communications & Public Affairs
IWK Foundation
c: 902-489-2867
lesley.gaum@iwkfoundation.org