Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
February 4, 2025: The 15th Annual Radiothon officially kicked off with an inspiring gathering of community leaders, media professionals, and families at the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic. This heartfelt event, held in partnership with Radio United, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to support children battling cancer in the Rio Grande Valley. This year’s theme, “Unstoppable,” aims to celebrate the resilience of these young warriors and raise funds to continue providing essential care.
Honoring 15 Years of Impact
Victoria Guerra, Director of Philanthropy at the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic, opened the event with profound remarks:
“We are honored to partner with the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic and Radio United today. Today also marks World Cancer Day, making launching our 15th year of celebrating and honoring these incredible children especially meaningful.”
She emphasized the clinic’s commitment to providing medical treatment, emotional support, and spiritual support for children facing cancer. The partnership with Radio United has played a crucial role in this mission, bringing the community together and amplifying these children’s voices.
“One of the most memorable aspects of this partnership is that Radio United allows our kids to be DJs for a day. This experience allows them to share their stories, feel like celebrities, and shine in the spotlight—just as they deserve.”
Over the years, this collaboration has raised nearly $1 million, demonstrating the influence of community-driven efforts to make a tangible difference in the lives of these young warriors.
Representing Radio United, Maria Alvarez shared the importance of this long-standing partnership:
“Fifteen years ago, we partnered with the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic, and we could not have found a more worthy cause to support. We proudly dedicate our time and airwaves to this Radiothon every year because we see firsthand the need and impact on these children and their families.”
She highlighted the support from six major radio stations— La Ley 102.5 FM (XHRR-FM), Digital 101.5 FM (XHAVO-FM), 710 KURV AM, La Lupe 89.1 FM (XHCAO-FM), Super Tejano 102.1 FM (KBUC), and Ultra 104.9 FM (XHRYS-FM)—which come together annually to promote the event and encourage community involvement.
“Last year, our theme was ‘Let’s Get Loud,’ and this year, it’s ‘Unstoppable.’ This perfectly reflects the spirit of these children, their families, and everyone involved in this event. Seeing the kids in the studio, being DJs for a day, and sharing their joy is heartwarming and inspiring,” Alvarez said
With growing support from media outlets across the Rio Grande Valley, the Radiothon continues to gain momentum, becoming bigger and better each year.
Two unstoppable young patients, Jason Rivera, 17, from Harlingen, and Atzin Jaimes, five from Mercedes, took center stage to launch the event officially.
Jason, a 17-year-old leukemia patient, had the honor of leading the kickoff video:
The audience laughed and applauded, celebrating the moment as the video played, showcasing the strength and determination of the children at Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic.
The Call to Action
The 15th Annual Radiothon is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of resilience and hope. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every act of kindness makes a difference in the lives of these children.
As Alvarez stated: “We invite everyone to help make this year’s Radiothon the most successful yet. Together, we are UNSTOPPABLE.“
The event concluded with cheers and applause, reinforcing the message that the Rio Grande Valley supports these courageous children. With the community’s generosity and unwavering spirit, the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic will continue its mission to provide life-saving care and hope for a brighter future.
How You Can Help
- Donate: Visit the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic website or join Radio United stations to contribute.
- Spread the Word: Share the Radiothon on social media using #UnstoppableRadiothon.
- Volunteer: Reach out to the clinic for opportunities to support the children and their families.
Together, we can make a difference. Let’s be UNSTOPPABLE!
Several notable media and industry figures were in attendance to show their support:
- Double J – Radio personality on Air with the Morning Show on Ultra 90.1 and afternoon host from 12 PM to 4 PM on Super 102.1, where Tejano lives.
- Armando San Roman – On-air personality at Super Tejano Radio United.
- Anna Medina – Media Director at Olive Marketing.
- Mayra Olivarez – Chief Executive Officer at Olive Marketing.
- Victoria Guerra – Director of Philanthropy at Vannie Cook Clinic.
The funds raised through the Radiothon directly support the clinic’s mission to provide cutting-edge care to children in South Texas, regardless of their ability to pay. Thanks to community generosity, the clinic ensures that no child is turned away due to financial constraints, with all donations staying local to benefit families in the region. The press conference was at the Glen E. & Rita K. Roney conference room at the Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic.
For more information about the Radiothon or how you can support the Vannie E. Cook Children’s Cancer Clinic, please visit www.vanniecook.org
