ACS Telethon kicks off in Carbon County
JIM THORPE, CARBON COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — An annual weekend telethon tradition is underway in Carbon County.
It kicked off this weekend to raise money aimed at tackling a devastating disease that affects so many families.
The Annual American Cancer Society (ACS) Telethon in Jim Thorpe raises money for cancer research.
The telethon showcases cancer survivors, supporters, and live entertainment.
This year, the two-day event seems bigger and better than ever.
At Penn’s Peak, volunteer and cancer survivor Rose Marie Mikulski shared her story during day one of the annual ACS Telethon.
“I’ve experienced cancer. Maybe a long time ago someone volunteered and found a cure for my cancer and that’s exactly what happened. I am cancer-free for 40 years,” said Mikulski.
The Lansford woman was already a five-year volunteer for the telethon before being diagnosed with cancer.
Since then, it holds even more meaning.
Kindness Week at Marywood University in Lackawanna County
“You meet so many nice people and everyone who volunteers, volunteers from their heart,” Mikulski explained.
Back Mountain Praise was one of a dozen bands to fill the stage during the first day of the telethon.
The musicians and dancers shared one goal: to support people like Mikulski.
“We just want to try and touch people’s hearts and, and help them to know that there is hope in the midst of their dark time,” Blue Mountain Praise Band Member Jennifer Eckhart said.
As many performed, others pledged their donations from all over NEPA and beyond.
It’s a direct result of how the event has expanded through the years with people from several counties like Carbon, Schuylkill, and Luzerne playing large roles.
“It’s not just an eastern Pennsylvania thing anymore. Some of our smaller eastern Pennsylvania communities don’t always know how they fit into the rest of the world. Well, this is one way that they do. These communities are making a real difference,” said ACS Telethon Chairman Joe Krushinsky.
A real difference that can change a life and a message Mikulski wants you to know.
“Early detection is so important so if the doctor says do it then do it don’t wait,” Mikulski added.
The ACS is hoping to raise more than $250,000 across the two-day event.
The weekend telethon wraps up Sunday night at midnight.
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