The IWK Telethon has raised more than $6.6 million as Maritimers welcomed it back for its 37th edition.
The telethon is the largest annual fundraiser for the Halifax children’s hospital.
The IWK Foundation says this year donors pledged $6,630,585 in support to help purchase important pieces of equipment including the CADD Infusion Pump and accessories for the hospital’s pediatric pain team.
These pumps allow children to push a button when they’re in pain and receive a safe dose of medication that has been programmed in advance by the physician.
President and CEO Jennifer Gillivan says it has been heartwarming to see people come together, especially after such a challenging year.
“It’s been a very hard year and despite the challenges we’ve all faced, the generosity of Maritimers continues to shine bright for the IWK,” said Gillivan in a news release. “Watching individuals, families, kids, organizations, businesses and entertainers from across our region come together virtually [on Sunday] was a very special celebration of the power of community.”
The show ran on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The fundraiser was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.