51st Annual Variety Kids Telethon Media Lunch [PICTURES]

On Thursday (March 7), I had the incredible opportunity to meet this year's Celebrity Child, Emily Klima, at the media lunch for the 51st Annual Variety Kids Telethon.  I can't look at this picture without smiling my face off.

Emily is quite frankly one of the most wonderful, adorable, lovable characters I've met!  I told her how much I loved her pink dress, and I asked if pink was her favorite color.  She made a sheepish smile, looked at her mom like she was asking permission, and whispered, "No...it's blue.  But this is my telethon dress."

She was born prematurely at only 27 weeks, and her parents didn't know what to expect.  Would she survive? Would she walk? Would she live a normal life?  This little trooper has powered through tests, surgeries, physical therapy....and now walks with the aid of a walker....and a tremendous smile. More on Emily here.

Emily celebrated her fifth birthday with us yesterday, and she was surprised with a cake from Chef's Restaurant.  Eyes lit up like big, blue stop signs.

Honestly, look at this little girl's intoxicating smile. Here she is between mom and dad, Kim and Tim Klima.

The telethon runs on WKBW, Channel 7, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 24.  To make a pledge, click here, or call 558-7575 (toll free at 1-800-507-7753).

The day before the telethon, enjoy the 8th Annual Concert with the Stars at the Riviera Theatre in North Tonawanda! Doors open at 6 p.m., The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Program starts and 6:30 p.m., and the concert begins at 7 p.m.

For just $20, some highlights:

-The Scintas -- Buffalo's first family of music!
-Clint Holmes -- Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year for 8 years
-Ilene Graff -- from the TV Show Mr. Belvedere and Broadway singer/actress
-Terry Buchwald -- Buffalo's own greatest Elvis
-Howard -- from the Mr. Food Test Kitchen

Thanks for your support!!!! :)

<3 LD