It was a weekend to remember as Telemiracle’s 39th edition not only raised more than $4 million, but also said goodbye to one of its most iconic hosts: Bob McGrath.
Except for one year, 82-year-old McGrath has been hosting the province-wide telethon since its inception in 1977. He’s been a key face during the show and it was with strong emotions that performers said their farewell at the end of Sunday’s broadcast.
“There are no words to express it,” McGrath said. “Except thank you, and I love you all.”
His decision was so momentous that the City of Saskatoon even declared March 8 as Bob McGrath Day last month. He may be a U.S. citizen, but the people of Saskatchewan have embraced him as one of their own.
“I did not find out about (his retirement) until his announcement … my first thoughts were about how much he would be missed,” said Bonnie Ireland, this year’s chair of Telemiracle. “It is sad to see him go, but I am glad it happened like that with everyone giving him the respectful sendoff that he deserves.”
Aside from McGrath’s announcement, the performances went off without a hitch. Around 1,200 volunteers, Kinettes, and staff were on site throughout the weekend to get prepared and keep things running smoothly. Among them were the Humboldt Kinettes, who were handling any overflow of callers during the show. Thanks to the online donation option, there wasn’t too much overflow this year.
“It just keeps getting bigger and better,” said Kelly Soderholm, one of the Humboldt Kinettes that was handling overflow calls. “It’s always inspiring, motivating, and humbling to see how everyone comes together to put on this huge event.”
While the 20-hour event consists of various types of performances, the purpose has always remained the same: to raise money to support Saskatchewan residents who need certain equipment for special needs or to travel for special treatment.
“The hardest part is hearing about all the small children that need support and their stories. They’re so touching,” said Jodi McDougall, another Humboldt Kinette.
Nevertheless, both the Kinettes and Ireland agreed that the best part about the entire experience has been the friendships they’ve made. Ireland in particular has had the opportunity to work closely with many of the volunteers since she’s spent the last 18 months helping co-ordinate this event.
“The friendships you make and the support is amazing,” she said. “I think the biggest surprise is the national cast, how much they care about Telemiracle. To see them relate to people even though they’re stars … it’s humbling. You do it because you love it.”
By the end of the broadcast, the final count was at a whopping $4,312,457.
