Thirty-three radio stations are taking part in a province-wide radiothon, including Saskatoon Media Group radio stations, to raise funds for the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital.

JPCH Foundation CEO Troy Davies says this year, all funds raised will go towards Project Double O: License to Heal. He explains that the double O’s stand for otolaryngology and otology, which boils down to hearing health.

Throughout the two-day radiothon, the hospital hopes to raise enough to build two new sound booths, purchase additional audiometres, and acquire computerized tools to help test the hearing of young children and fit them for hearing aids if necessary.

To give context as to how important this initiative is for JPCH, Davies says between 450 and 500 babies get their hearing tested there each month. Between 5-8 per cent of these babies don’t pass and must get a detailed hearing assessment with an audiologist.

All donations up to $200,000 will be matched by the David and Karen Holst Family Foundation.

“Last year, we were very lucky to do over one million dollars. I would never say that we’re going to do that, or guarantee any of that, but our goal is to definitely hit that mark again.”

Those wanting to donate can do so online at pattisonchildrens.ca, or by calling 1888 08KIDS.