(DISCLOSURE: 352Today’s parent company North Central Florida Media Group is a longtime partner of Stop Children’s Cancer’s annual Bear-A-Thon fundraiser.)
OCALA, FL (352today.com) – For the 27th year, Gainesville-based cancer research nonprofit Stop Children’s Cancer is raising funds for the cause and gathering spirit-raising stuffies to donate to the kids as well, with a little help from Ocala area radio stations 93.7 K-Country and 92.5/95.5 Wind-FM, and, yes, 352Today.
The charity’s annual Bear-A-Thon takes place on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m.–during which time the stations’ on-air personalities and special guests will be taking calls, recognizing donors and generally whipping up a frenzy of excitement over the donation drive that not only collects cash for pediatric cancer research and clinical trials, but also gives patrons the chance to “buy” Bears and Chemo Ducks that’ll lift the spirits of the children in treatment at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital.
Stop Children’s Cancer’s Bears and Chemo Ducks are available for donation year-round, but the Bear-A-Thon marks a special day when the community comes together to raise not just funds, but also excitement and awareness of the organization’s mission. Stop Children’s Cancer was founded after Howard and Laurel Freeman lost their daughter Bonnie to acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 1981 and has helped finance lifesaving advances in cancer treatment ever since.
Last year, the Bear-A-Thon raised more than $100,000 for the cause.
Interested parties can purchase a Bear or Chemo Duck for a $40 donation here and find out more about how they can be recognized (or not! Up to you!) for their contribution to such a worthy cause. And be sure to stay tuned in to K-Country or Wind-FM next Wednesday to feel the enthusiasm and learn more about Stop Children’s Cancer and its impact on the region’s kids.