When Ben Butler joined Mark Skibba in the mornings on WYTE, he didn’t expect that his new gig would be a life-changing experience or that his experience, for that matter, would change lives. On September 9-11, it was soon confirmed what Ben knew all along – WYTE cares about kids in north central Wisconsin. It was during these three days, that Ben and Mark shared stories of courage and triumph from Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Marshfield during the 7th annual Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon.

“I am proud to have taken part in my first Radiothon this year,” shared Ben. “I have never been a part of something quite this extraordinary. I feel privileged to be a part of this event and help spread the stories of the wonderful kids and families affected by situations that many of us couldn’t imagine being in.”

Every day at Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital there are brave children and families who are in need of hope, answers, and above all, care. The driving force behind the annual Radiothon is to help meet the needs of these children – from the tiny infant born months early, to the teenager battling cancer.

During the three-day event broadcast live from Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Ben and Mark encouraged listeners to call in and pledge financial support. The interviews included children and families who have personally been helped by the outstanding medical care and equipment, provided in part by support from past Radiothon efforts. After the final pledge was tallied, it was announced that more than $80,000 had been pledged to help local sick and injured children.

“It really is eye-opening to see first hand the things that can happen to your own neighbors and people you know and love,” said Ben. “It’s truly inspiring to witness the perseverance and good-spirits many of these kids and families endure in extreme adversity. I am proud to say that I was a small part of this year’s Radiothon.”

Even in this tough economy, listeners were moved when hearing the Radiothon stories. Many were simply grateful for healthy children and grandchildren. Mark Skibba, who has hosted the annual event since 2003, added, “Our WYTE listeners continue to amaze! To help this many children and families in 2009 says volumes about those that help make miracles happen.”

The 2010 Radiothon will take place September 8-10.