Lewis Telethon exceeds expectations in sluggish economy

Philadelphia Herald Monday 6th September, 2010

The annual Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon has raised $58.9 million despite America’s struggling economy.

Final figures from the annual Labor Day event was totaled up after the weekend, when dozens of performers joined the 21½-hour program to perform for charity.

The event which has been billed as one of the country’s unique events, brought performers such as Barry Manilow, Michael Feinstein, Maureen McGovern, Charo and Carrot Top together to advance the research and service programs of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

While the amount was down from $60.5 million last year and a record $65 million in 2008, Lewis said he was pleased with the support.

He said: "I’m heartened by the unique ability of Americans to help others in need, when they themselves are likely struggling financially."

Comedian Lewis, who is the national chairman of the fund which is spun off from the telethon, said the funds would allow the MDA to continue funding worldwide research to find treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and related diseases.

Lewis, 84, ended the telethon with the traditional singing of his signature song, "You’ll Never Walk Alone."