It was a Labor Day tradition in our home, and I’m proud once again to be a part of the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon.

The show will be broadcast to nearly 40 million viewers in the United States and Canada by some 180 television stations comprising MDA’s “Love Network.”

Jerry's goal of raising "one dollar more" than the previous year's amount has been met almost every year, thanks to the generosity and compassion of the American public. Last year's total was $63.8 million.

Let’s raise “one dollar more” in 2008.

MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat muscular dystrphy and related diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services and far-reaching professional and public health information.

The money raised at the MDA Telethon is used for lifesaving research, medical clinics, wheelchairs, support groups and summer camp for kids.

A fairly new feature of this year’s broadcast is the Jerry Lewis Telethon Online Auction. Hundreds of items are up for bid in such categories as travel, unique experiences, electronics, golf, excursions, sports memorabilia and more. The auction ends Sept. 4.  You can find it here at kbtx.com.

The Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon begins at 8 p.m. Sunday and runs throughout the day Monday.

Sit back, enjoy the entertainment, and together, let’s help in the fight against neuromuscular disease!

Remember every little bit counts...here’s what your pledge dollars buy:

$30  Flu Shot

$82  One minute of research

$100  One support group session

$150  One physical, occupational or respiratory therapy consultation

$200  Professional fees related to initial diagnostic work-up at an MDA clinic

$500  Assists one person for one year with the repair of a wheelchair or leg braces

$800  Sends one child to MDA summer camp

$2,000  Assists one person with the purchase of a wheelchair, leg braces or communication device