Today : Dec 18, 2024
Local News
18 December 2024

3FM Serious Request Raises Funds For Metakids

DJs launch charity event aimed at combating metabolic diseases affecting children.

3FM Serious Request has kicked off its annual fundraising event, with this year's edition returning to the Glazen Huis, located at the Rodetorenplein, Zwolle. From December 18 to December 24, DJs Wijnand Speelman, Sophie Hijlkema, and Barend van Deelen will live off juices with no solid food, aiming to raise as much money as possible for the Metakids organization, dedicated to funding research for children with metabolic diseases.

With the festive season upon us, the buzz surrounding this event is palpable. The city manager, Anne Riemersma, expressed the community's excitement saying, "Serious Request wanted to come to Zwolle for quite some time. Our entrepreneurs are thrilled it's finally happening this year." This reflects the enthusiasm of the local businesses, which will benefit not only from the event's presence but also from the heightened visibility of their city.

Metabolic diseases pose significant health risks, being the deadliest diseases among children. According to NPO 3FM reporters, "One of four children with these conditions will not live past 18 years." This stark fact underlines the urgency and importance of the fundraising efforts as the DJs take center stage, broadcasting live 24 hours a day, taking requests for songs as donations come pouring in.

The action from DJs goes beyond simple entertainment; it is also coupled with community involvement. Sjanne Disselhorst, a teacher at De Twijn—a school for special education— voiced the necessity for increased awareness, stating, "It is truly hard to see the struggles children with metabolic diseases endure. Action is absolutely necessary." Ten percent of the students at De Twijn deal with metabolic issues, showcasing just how prevalent and significant these diseases are within the community.

Before the start of this year's Serious Request, over 1 million euros had already been raised through preliminary activities. One notable contributor is Wijnand Speelman, who raised €214,861 by running double marathons to promote the cause, including completing 86 kilometers from Hilversum to Zwolle just last month.

Not only will the DJs entice donations through their broadcast, but the Glazen Huis will also be turned knee-deep with cultural festivities. A festival atmosphere will accompany the event, with performances lined up throughout the week. Kicking off the live sessions is the Dutch band Rondé, who have composed this year's theme song for the initiative. Other artists scheduled to perform include Kane, Roxy Dekker, Franz Ferdinand, and local talents, such as Typhoon.

Since its inception, Serious Request has evolved, adapting its format to keep the spirit alive. After fundraising woes led to the temporary halt of the Glazen Huis format following the 2017 event, the organizers turned to alternatives, such as walking tours labeled 'The Lifeline'. Post-2020, when pandemic restrictions necessitated alternative interventions, the Glazen Huis structure made its triumphant return. Last year alone, over 7.5 million euros were raised for ALS Nederland, showcasing the powerful community connection.

This year's goals for Serious Request target not only financial milestones but also the broadening of awareness surrounding the research for metabolic diseases. The event aims to galvanize individuals who can make contributions, whether small or large, to significantly advance medical research for the incredibly vulnerable population of children suffering from these conditions.

Through serious engagement, perseverance, and community unity, the hope is to reflect on the community's collective heart and support for these children. The public's response and generosity will help shape the future of research and provide needed assistance to families grappling with the harsh realities of metabolic diseases.

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