Southwest Virginia radio listeners rallied around the future of pediatric cancer care during the 20th annual Cure Kids Cancer Radiothon, raising a record $241,853 over 2 days. It’s the most 94.9 Star Country has raised in the event's history. 

All proceeds benefit the pediatric hematology and oncology clinic at Carilion Children's Hospital, where more than 40 local families are actively receiving treatment. Over the past 2 decades, the radiothon has raised more than $3 million for Carilion Children's in partnership with Children's Miracle Network. 

“It is cliché to say, but 100% true, it's an honor to be part of it because all the money stays completely local,” said Taylor Sherrill, co-host on 94.9 Star Country. “The fact that all that money is going to go toward not just the present day, but the future and the buildings that are coming and the research, it's an amazing thing to be a part of.” 

That future includes the Carilion Taubman Cancer Center and the campaign to bring proton therapy to the region. Proton therapy is an advanced form of radiation that precisely targets tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. For pediatric patients, that precision can help reduce long-term side effects and protect healthy, developing tissue. 

Bringing proton therapy to the Roanoke Valley would give more children and families access to advanced cancer care close to home. 

“There are very few places in the nation where you can go to get proton therapy, and it's happening here,” said Brett Sharp, co-host on 94.9 Star Country. “I hope what resonates with our audience is how important it is to have a hospital here in our town that can treat local families so they don't have to travel.” 

During the Radiothon, Sharp and Sherrill spoke live on air with local families about their experiences with childhood cancer as volunteers staffed the phone bank. Midway through the first day's broadcast, one of those volunteers pulled aside Macy Ware, Children's Miracle Network program director at Carilion Children’s, and made a $20,000 gift. His spouse had faced cancer, and he understood the challenges families experience. 

“I will never forget the tears in his eyes of just wanting to help, and he had the means to do it,” Sherrill said. “And then he continued to answer phones the rest of the day.” 

For Sharp, moments like that are why the Radiothon keeps growing. 

“The giving spirit of our community never ceases to amaze me,” he said. “This year we almost eclipsed a quarter of a million dollars for a two-day radiothon in a market this size, which is pretty amazing.” 

Even after a record-setting year, the need continues. Every gift brings the region closer to a future where children can get advanced cancer treatment close to home. 

With continued donor support, proton therapy at the Carilion Taubman Cancer Center can become a reality for families across Southwest Virginia. To help bring proton therapy home, visit CarilionFoundation.org/givetocancer.