Wright & Filippis Joins the Fight Against Muscular Dystrophy

There are few Labor Day traditions as well-known as the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. Since 1966, the 21-hour telethon has been the most important fundraising event of the year for MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association). The program, hosted every year by Jerry Lewis, is a variety show with celebrity guests that entertains, informs and raises funds for service and research programs.

Brian Chambers (right), Wright & Filippis Account Representative presents a check to MDA on behalf of Wright & Filippis.

This year, the telethon was broadcast from the Beverly Hills Hilton in California with 200 MDA "Love Network" stations picking up the broadcast in cities across the country. The telethon was carried locally by WB20 (WDWB) in Detroit and raised a total of $54.9 million, with nearly $1.7 million from Detroit-area viewers.

Wright & Filippis contributed to that amount with both a $3,000 donation as well as sponsoring a one-hour segment of the program. Brian Chambers, Wright & Filippis Account Representative attended the telethon to present a check on behalf of the company. Brian was also interviewed during the telethon and had an opportunity to talk about Wright & Filippis.

The money raised from the telethon will go toward the fight against more than 40 neuromuscular diseases, research, medical and support services, and education. Children and adults with neuromuscular diseases benefit directly from the funds raised by the telethon through services such as specialized medical and therapeutic care at more than 200 university-affiliated MDA clinics and 33 MDA/ALS centers; free flu vaccinations; assistance with the purchase and repair of wheelchairs, leg braces, and assistive communication devices; support groups; and MDA summer camp for children ages 6-21.