Maritimers have once again opened their hearts – and their wallets – to support the region’s children’s hospital, bringing in a record-breaking $6,389,518.36 at the 32nd annual IWK Telethon for Children.

The telethon was broadcast live from the IWK Health Centre in Halifax, and from remote locations in Sydney, Saint John and Charlottetown, Saturday evening and all day Sunday.

This year’s total smashed last year’s record of $6,270,346.07.

“Year after year, Maritime generosity shines bright for the IWK and this support makes a profound difference to the level of health care excellence available to children and youth right here in our region,” said Jennifer Gillivan, president & CEO of the IWK Foundation.

“The success of this weekend would not have been possible without the incredible support of our donors and volunteers from across the Maritimes, and of course the dedication and passion of our broadcast partner CTV.”

Viewers were treated to live entertainment from Maritime favourites like Heather Rankin, Jenn Grant and Kim Dunn, as well as heartwarming and inspiring stories about the patients who rely on the IWK.

The telethon is the IWK’s largest annual fundraiser and supports the most urgent needs of the children’s hospital. This year, donations will help fund important pieces of medical equipment such as new phototherapy blankets, which help treat newborn jaundice while allowing the baby to be skin-to-skin with a parent, as well as a patient monitor that provides critical monitoring of a patient’s heart rhythm, breathing rate and blood oxygen levels.

“We are very grateful to our viewers who continue to generously support the IWK each year,” said Trent McGrath, general manager of CTV Atlantic, C100 FM & 101.3 The BOUNCE.

“Our team is incredibly proud that the IWK Telethon for Children on CTV is one of the longest running telethons in North America. It really speaks to the community spirit that makes the Maritimes such a special place.”

Donations can still be made to the IWK Foundation by calling 1-800-595-2266 or visiting www.iwkfoundation.org.