The local community raised $255,612 for Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, Children’s Miracle Network hospital, in its 24th annual iHeart Media Cares for Kids Radiothon in December.

During the event, iHeart Media donated the 72 hours of airtime to the cause while three of its radio stations – WBBQ 104.3, 96.3 Kiss FM, and 105.7 The Bull – and WRDW News 12/NBC 26 broadcast live from the hospital.

In addition, some of the patients who have been treated at the hospital shared their stories with DJs and reporters throughout the event.

“The children’s hospital could not survive without the support of the community. I’m just so grateful for everyone’s support,” says Dr. Valera Hudson, pediatrician-in-chief of Wellstar Children’s. “No children’s hospital thrives without philanthropy; 100% of the money that’s raised is used directly to help the children we take care of here. All of the funds stay right here at the Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia.”

Proceeds from Radiothon finance summer camp experiences for children. The fundraiser also allows for purchases of comfort items like Zaky Hugs, which mimics the warmth and security of a parent’s touch for babies in the NICU; red wagons to transport young patients around the hospital; and sensory toys for children with autism.