WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon

Lisa Scherber recaps a record-setting Radio Telethon

·16 min·1 clip
Lisa Scherber explains how a heartbreaking Red Sox loss pales next to the record-breaking Jimmy Fund Telethon's emotional impact.
The episode begins with the host introducing Lisa Scherber after a Red Sox loss, contrasting the game's outcome with the telethon's significance. Scherber expresses pride in the Red Sox organization's support over the two-day event. She describes a highlight where Chris and Louise, two boys from the Dominican Republic both diagnosed with cancer, reunited to throw the first pitch after meeting on a spring training trip. The host notes the telethon surpassed $5 million in donations for the first time and encourages continued giving. Scherber explains how the Jimmy Fund Clinic creates a joyful environment for patients, even on their worst days. She credits the team at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for fostering this atmosphere. The discussion shifts to Red Sox players' involvement, with Scherber noting they visit the clinic unannounced and build real relationships without seeking publicity. Examples include Will Middlebrooks hosting a patient behind the scenes. Scherber emphasizes how these interactions help patients feel cancer doesn't define them. The host asks about balancing tough cases with success stories, and Scherber mentions Brenna Bunowski, a patient in active remission starting eighth grade. Scherber shares a personal moment reconnecting with parents of a patient who passed away at age 34 after being treated since 16. She reflects on managing emotional challenges by relying on her team and family support. The conversation touches on funding concerns, with Scherber stating donations are crucial for clinical trials as traditional funding sources decline. She stresses the importance of providing hope to families. The episode concludes with Scherber previewing the next major event: a summer festival at Franklin Park Zoo exclusively for Jimmy Fund Clinic families to foster community and hope.

As heard by us

A live Red Sox fundraiser finds its strongest moment between public performance and a child's need for safety.

A fresh Red Sox loss sets the frame for a fundraiser conversation about where meaning sits when the scoreboard cannot carry it. The guest looks back on two days shaped by the Red Sox and broadcast partners, then settles on the quieter force of two men meeting children and adults…

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Why you'd press play

You want a Red Sox postgame moment where a hard loss gives way to a kid's eye-level kind of care.

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