Maritimers step up in generosity again for IWK Telethon
Every year, Maritimers rally behind a cause that is close to home and touches countless lives – and that's supporting the IWK Health Centre through the IWK Telethon for Children.
The telethon – broadcast live on CTV Atlantic – brings in millions each year for the IWK, which is an internationally renowned children's and women's hospital.
But the hospital itself does need help, said IWK Foundation President and CEO Jennifer Gillivan, because government funding only goes so far.
'It's an old building and it needs upgrades,' said Gillivan. 'We need new technology. It keeps changing. So, we need better equipment, all the time. We have new programs and research, and it drives new ways to treat kids and patients.'
Now in its 41st year, the IWK Telethon has become a powerful showing of the generosity of community, which is always there to support the cause.
IWK Telethon
Volunteers operate the call-in donation lines at the 41st annual IWK Telethon on Sunday, June 1, 2025. (Jesse Thomas/CTV Atlantic)
Last year, it raised a record $7.5 million for its 40th anniversary. Even when times are tough financially for people, Gillivan said Maritimers step up in generosity.
'There's something right about a community when they know to put kids and women first,' said Gillivan. 'To actually support them in this way, there's just something right about that.'
It's no small task to pull off the telethon and TV broadcast, but it's a labour of love for the roughly 400 volunteers and those working in front of the cameras, telling the stories, and those behind the cameras helping to deliver the show.
IWK Telethon
Former CTV Atlantic chief anchor Steve Murphy and former CTV News at Five host Jayson Baxter share a laugh during the 41st IWK Telethon on Sunday, June 1, 2025. (Jesse Thomas/CTV Atlantic)
'I don't think people realize how much work has gone into building the set, writing the scripts and finding those patient stories,' said CTV's Liz Rigney, who is also the lead producer of the IWK Telethon. 'There is a big team, and everyone is so happy and so proud at the end of this production.'
The IWK Telethon is about raising money for the hospital but at the heart of it, it's about highlighting the patient stories and the real lives and families who have been touched by the incredible work and staff who make a difference at the IWK.
'I can't believe the level of skill, the knowledge, and the genius of the people who work at the IWK,' said Rigney. 'I don't think people understand, it's a world class facility and we're so happy to support it with the telethon.'
The IWK Telethon runs until 6 p.m. Sunday.
For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
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