The 43rd Annual Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon raised a record $65 million dollars for research and families affected by Muscular Dystrophy.  The 82 year old Jerry Lewis still hosted much of the show, with help from his indebted partner Ed McMahon, Jan Carr and Nancy O’Dell.

More pics after the skip…

The Telethon has been a staple of American culture for a long time.  From the firemen collecting money in their boots to the people who go door to door and collect for the cause, everyone knew what they were collecting for on Labor Day.  Lewis’ health has been deteriorating of late, but he looked in good condition through the 22-hour event. 

After, he was thankful for all of the contributions received.  He told reporters, he didn’t expect to set a record this year, with the slow economy.   But the American people came through!

Photos: PR Photos