An annual event spanning more than half a century returned Saturday evening, raising more than $2 million, as the 56th annual West Texas Rehab Telethon was held at the Abilene Convention Center, broadcasting live on eight television stations in Texas and Oklahoma.
West Texas Rehabilitation Centers in Abilene, San Angelo, and Ozona offer physical, occupational, and speech-language rehabilitation, therapy, a hearing center, and orthotic and prosthetic care for all ages, as well as providing hospice care in two locations.
The seven-hour telethon featured live entertainment and interviews with the center’s patients and supporters. Musical performances featured Aaron Watson, Annie Bosko, Red Steagall, Jake Hooker, and more.
An online auction featuring hundreds of donated goods and services was held to complement the donations from telethon viewers, making it an essential part of the event.
Proceeds from the telethon and auction provide care to over 850 patients daily, regardless of financial circumstances.
As the final minutes of the event passed, they announced that they raised a total of $2,034,367.
