Radiothon to Fund Hearing Services for Children at Jim Pattison Hospital

The annual Pattison Children’s Hospital Radiothon will take place on November 5 and 6, 2025, aiming to raise funds for crucial hearing services at the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon. This year, the focus is on enhancing Otolaryngology equipment, significantly impacting children with hearing disorders.

Every year, approximately 5,500 babies are born at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, all of whom undergo hearing screening. This initiative is vital, as data indicates that between five and eight percent of those screened do not pass. This translates to around 400 infants needing further assessment annually, with 25 to 30 diagnosed with permanent hearing loss through the newborn screening program. Early diagnosis is essential; without intervention, a child’s ability to communicate and learn can be severely affected.

Emmett, a six-year-old from Saskatoon, exemplifies the positive impact of early intervention. Born with Sanfilippo Syndrome Type A, a rare genetic disorder that can impair speech and hearing, Emmett wears hearing aids that have greatly improved his interactions and focus, according to his mother. He has received treatment at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, where a dedicated team of professionals, including Otolaryngologists, Audiologists, and Speech-language Pathologists, work collaboratively to address hearing and communication challenges.

The hospital’s commitment extends beyond infants; it provides care for children up to their teenage years. Cole, a 15-year-old from Shellbrook, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2021 after experiencing random hand spasms. Following surgery at JPCH in 2022, he was discharged within four days and has since resumed a normal life.

Another poignant story comes from Barrett, a four-year-old from Meadow Lake. After an urgent leukemia diagnosis, he began treatment at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, spending two weeks inpatient before transitioning to outpatient care. His mother, Jonaya, described the moment they received the diagnosis as one of the hardest days of her life. Recently, Barrett celebrated the completion of his chemotherapy treatment and rang the bell to mark the end of this challenging chapter, now ready for pre-school.

The upcoming radiothon will see participation from over 30 radio stations across Saskatchewan, including those operated by Pattison Media in various cities. Last year, the event raised just over $1 million to support hospital programs. Contributions can be made by calling 1-888-808-KIDS (5437) or by visiting their website to donate.

The commitment to improving children’s health continues through initiatives like this radiothon, underscoring the importance of community support in providing essential medical services.