Grateful families inspire support for the Alberta Children's Hospital

CALGARY, Feb. 5 /CNW/

Thanks to the generosity of our community along with Corus Radio Calgary stations Country 105 FM and Q107 FM, the Country 105 FM and Q107 FM Caring For Kids Radiothon raised $1.9 million for the Alberta Children's Hospital. That brings the total amount raised by the community through this Radiothon to more than $9.7 million in just seven years!

Sponsored by Foresters(TM) and Unity Life, a Foresters company, the Radiothon ran Wednesday Feb. 3rd to Friday Feb. 5th. Over 75 children, families and caregivers captivated listeners with their stories of hope, help and healing thanks to the Alberta Children's Hospital. Country music star and former nurse Paul Brandt again dropped by to co-host with the Country 105 FM announcers and interview children in hospital.

"We are grateful to have a radio partner who so generously allows us to share inspirational stories of the families and children cared for at the Alberta Children's Hospital," says Saifa Koonar, Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation President and CEO. "Radiothon is a truly meaningful event which allows the community a glimpse into the very heart of this hospital."

"It makes us proud to be part of such a wonderful event which has become so important to our listeners," says Garry McKenzie, General Manager for Corus Radio in Calgary. "Each year it is an honour to meet these brave kids and to help provide the health professionals who care for them the best tools possible."

The Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation raises funds for excellence in child health and family centred care. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation provides funding for innovative programs, state of the art equipment, advanced medical training and internationally recognized pediatric research.

Radiothon is a Children's Miracle Network initiative. Children's Miracle Network is a non-profit organization helping kids by raising funds for 170 children's hospitals across North America. In Canada, Children's Miracle Network raises funds for 14 children's hospitals, and has raised more than $200 million since its inception. http://www.childrensmiraclenetwork.ca

Radiothon is sponsored by Foresters(TM) across North America. Founded in 1874, Foresters(TM) helps individuals and families achieve financial security with its innovative portfolio of life insurance products and annuities. Foresters shares its financial strength with its members, who are customers, through complimentary life, health and education benefits that help its more than 735,000 eligible members and their families in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Foresters provides opportunities that inspire its members to make a difference in their communities. Unity Life of Canada, a Foresters company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Foresters, represents Foresters in Canada. For more information, please visit http://www.foresters.com/.

For further information: Justine Clay, Associate Communications Manager, Ph. (403) 955-8824 or jclay@achf.com