On December 22, 2024, Rai 1 hosted the "BellaFesta per Fondazione Telethon," marking the grand conclusion of the 35th Telethon fundraiser, dedicated to supporting research on rare genetic diseases. This special event, conducted by Pierluigi Diaco, brought excitement and emotions to the audience, celebrating not just the fundraiser but also the achievements of the Telethon Foundation.
The evening commenced at 21:30, featuring numerous beloved Italian artists, including Alberto Bertoli, the Tazenda, Alex Britti, Drupi, Fausto Leali, Michele Zarrillo, and Paolo Belli, who each took to the stage to perform and encourage donations for the cause. Diaco's approach blended entertainment with significant moments of reflection, ensuring the audience felt engaged and informed.
The theme of the night, "From Pain to Joy," was emblematic of Telethon's mission to transform suffering through hope and scientific research. Over the past 35 years, the foundation has financed 3,024 research projects, supported 1,771 researchers, and studied 637 diseases, underscoring its role as a beacon of hope for families affected by rare genetic conditions.
During the gala, the audience was treated to moving testimonials from influential figures such as Don Walter Insero, who shared insights inspired by Pope John Paul II’s legacy of hope, and Valeria Fiorito, who recounted her own story of receiving bone marrow from the late Fabrizio Frizzi, a cherished TV personality. These personal stories added depth and emotion to the evening, highlighting the importance of community support and the impact of medical research.
Telethon's commitment to medical excellence was underscored by Ilaria Villa, General Director of Telethon, who stated, "It is a privilege to give hope; that's why research must not stop and it needs everyone's support." This call to action set the tone for the night, reminding viewers of the urgent need for continuous funding and support to make advancements against these often-overlooked diseases.
With additional performances from the cast of "BellaMa’," including Nancy Brilli, Roberta Capua, Antonella Elia, and others, the night was festooned with entertainment, camaraderie, and heartfelt interactions. The atmosphere was electric as the artists interacted with viewers, encouraging them to contribute actively to the cause.
Throughout the week leading up to the event, Rai programming had been focused on the Telethon cause, ensuring maximum viewer engagement and awareness about the fundraising efforts. The finale served as the culmination of this initiative, inviting viewers to become part of the solution for countless families nationwide.
Viewers were reminded to donate easily by calling 45510, emphasizing the collective responsibility to support foundational missions like Telethon's. With compelling performances and heartfelt stories, the event not only sought funds but aimed also to inspire hope and raise awareness about genetic diseases.
Following the event, Diaco announced future episodes of "BellaFesta," set to air on December 26 and January 2, offering audiences more opportunities to engage with the mission of the foundation. The campaign will remain active until the end of the year, encouraging both new and loyal supporters to contribute whatever they can to this noble cause.
“BellaFesta per Fondazione Telethon” was not just another fundraiser; it was a celebration of human spirit, dedication, and the unwavering hope for research breakthroughs. The foundation's work over decades provides much-needed solace to those afflicted by rare diseases, ensuring continued support for scientific endeavors is not merely desirable but necessary.
With this gala, Rai 1 successfully merged entertainment with purpose, leaving viewers inspired to act and reminding them they too could make a difference.
