Channel 4 to raise money for Wolfson

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Channel 4 is partnering with Wolfson Children's Hospital to raise money so the hospital can continue helping children in our area.

Last year, more than 50,000 children were served by Wolfson. The "One to Grow On" celebration by Wolfson has raised about $1.6 million in the past four years and the goal this year is to reach $2 million.

Channel 4's telethon will be broadcast throughout Tuesday's newscasts and at the top of each hour before regularly scheduled programming.  People can call and donate from 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.  

The numbers are 1-800-366-9598 or 904-348-6022.

Tuesday's goal is to raise $75,000 at the telethon.  Callers can donate any amount, in honor of a special child in their life, or in memory of a loved one.

Money raised this year through the "One to Grow On" celebration will support the purchase of a 3 Tesla MRI, the most advanced, highest performing MRI available. This MRI provides clearer, faster images which can lead to earlier diagnoses and the elimination of certain surgeries and catheter studies.

Anyone unable to donate to the telethon is encouraged to sign up for the Ultra Marathon Relay or Run 5 to Keep Kids Alive, a five mile race and a one mile fun run on February 9th at the Jacksonville Landing.

For the Ultra Marathon, 10 runners will run five 11 mile laps through Downtown Jacksonville. Each mile represents one of the 55 children who have been helped by Wolfson Children's Hospital.

Channel 4's Richard Nunn will participate in the 55 mile Ultra Marathon for the fourth year in a row.

To learn more about the 55 children honored this year and all activities planned for the "One to Grow On" celebration on February 9th at the Landing, go to www.wolfson55.org.