Winter 2025
By Robbie Merritt and Nathalie Sczublewski
Photography by John Deputy, Matt Teuten
The WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon presented by Arbella Insurance continued to be a beacon of support for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund in August with a record-breaking fundraising year. The inspirational two-day event, which has united our community since 2002, raised more than $5.7 million, bringing its lifetime total to $80 million in support of adult and pediatric cancer care and research at Dana-Farber.
The broadcast went live from Fenway Park Aug. 18 and 19 from 6 a.m. through midnight and featured stories of resilience and hope from patients, doctors, community leaders, and special guests. This year’s event made history, surpassing $5 million for the first time thanks to gifts from more than 15,000 donors across all 50 states. More than 70% of donations were under $100, showcasing the collective impact of grassroots generosity. A transformative $1 million match from longtime Dana-Farber supporters and philanthropists Rob and Karen Hale further inspired donors to make a difference.
The event included special appearances from Jimmy Fund Co-Chairs Tom Caron and Brock Holt; Jimmy Fund Captain and Red Sox pitcher Garrett Whitlock; Brianna Wakefield, daughter of the late Tim and Stacy Wakefield; Red Sox manager Alex Cora; Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla; and Boston Bruins head coach Marco Sturm, among many others. Gayle O’Connell, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Arbella Insurance, also appeared on the broadcast, reflecting on the longstanding partnership between Arbella and the Jimmy Fund and their decades of supporting the annual event.
“We’re thrilled to have raised a record-breaking $5.7 million to support adults and children with cancer,” said Jimmy Fund Co-Chairs Tom Caron and Brock Holt. “Together, we have made history, making a significant impact in the fight against cancer, and with continued support, we can lessen the burden of cancer for families. We are humbled and grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support from Red Sox Nation during the WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon presented by Arbella Insurance.”
