PBRC telethon is Saturday

Permian Basin Rehabilitation Center will be holding its annual telethon Saturday on Channel 9.

For almost 4 decades, the telethon has unified the Odessa community, rallying support for the Rehab Center and the life-changing therapy services it provides to patients in the Permian Basin.

PBRC Executive Director Kimberly Ortega says that the telethon is a unifying event for Odessa. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s a lot of fun,” she says. “It’s really a celebration of all the work that goes into keeping the Rehab Center open and capable of helping as many people as possible.”

Ortega says that the telethon is a big event that requires a lot of partners in the community, not to mention months of planning. “It’s really a testimony to our community, how compassionate and giving they are, and how much they care about keeping the Rehab Center operating.” As much work as it takes to put on the event, Ortega says that it’s worth it to see such a show of community support.

Johnny Jimenez is this year’s Permian Basin Rehabilitation Center Poster Child. (Courtesy Photo)

The telethon will be hosted at First Baptist, with TV coverage provided by Channel 9. Donations can be made during the telethon, or online at the PBRC website: pbrehab.org/our-events/telethon

All funds received during the telethon will be used directly by the Rehab Center, providing vital support to individuals facing physical challenges. Each tax-free donation will offer hope and assistance to those navigating obstacles due to conditions such as Autism, Down syndrome, birth defects, stroke, or head injury.

According to Ortega, the best part of the telethon is the chance to share the success stories of PBRC patients on the air. “I think the impact can be seen in the stories of the patients we get to share. People can tune in to the telethon and hear about all the good we are able to do with the help of their support.”

Throughout the event, donors will be recognized and celebrated for their contributions, underscoring the vital role they play in ensuring that therapy services remain accessible to those in need. Viewers can expect a lineup of spotlights on both donors and patients, highlighting individuals whose lives have been transformed through therapy services provided by the Rehab Center. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that community support can have on individuals facing physical and emotional challenges.