MIX 101.5 WRAL-FM held its 24th annual Radiothon for Duke Children’s Hospital on December 12th and 13th, 2018. Listerners donated $402,112 during the two-day, 25 hour broadcast was hosted by the MIX morning show Two Men and Mom; Kyle Smelser, Bryan Lord and Sarah King.
“The generosity of the Triangle is amazing,” said Smelser. “Once again, our community stepped up and delivered. The MIX 101.5 Radiothon for Duke Children’s Hospital reminds you of what’s important in life. We are always amazed by the courage of families and patients when they share their stories. Life is about moments. The donations the Radiothon receives helps those patients have those future moments with their families. It’s a beautiful thing to see. The money raised today truly creates those miracles for tomorrow.”
Several special guests stopped by during the 2018 Radiothon, including Duke Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Krzyzewski. He offered several exclusive incentives, including an access for two to a Duke Men’s Basketball closed practice and an opportunity for a photo with Coach K as well as his autograph.
Then on the second day WRAL-TV Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel came by to share his personal experience at Duke Children’s.
“It was a powerful moment and we’re glad he took his personal time to visit us and share his story,” said WRAL-FM Promotions Director Jason Newton.
He continued, “This is my third Radiothon, and I’m lucky to see firsthand what Duke Children’s does for the families. The stories I hear from the families are sometimes really hard to hear, and very emotional but the way they tell it always leaves me with a smile on my face.”
The MIX 101.5 Radiothon is Duke Children’s largest single fundraising event each year. This signature event raises funds to benefit children’s programs and further support the continuation of excellence within the medical and surgical programs at Duke Children’s.
“I’m blessed with two healthy children, and no parent wants to hear that their kid is sick, but I have comfort knowing Duke Children’s is in our own backyard and they would get the best care in the country,” said Newton.
MIX 101.5 has raised $18,148,667 for the kids at Duke Children’s over the past 23 years thanks to the compassion and caring of MIX 101.5 listeners, sponsors, patient families and hundreds of volunteers.
Thanks to WRAL-FM, to WRAL-FM’s Diane Ramsey and to 99.9 The Fan’s Jennifer Grady for these capcom photos.