Téléthon controversy sparks publicity storm

Pierre Bergé caused an uproar when he told France Info radio that he suffered from the disease but opposed the Téléthon because organisers had spent too much money on real estate. He accused them of exploiting people’s generosity by using images of children with the disease. In the event his comments rallied everyone behind the fundraiser, giving an unexpected boost to the campaign.

Organised by the Association Française contre les Myopathies (muscular dystrophy and associated conditions), the Téléthon dominates the France 2 television channel for 30 hours, as stars strut their stuff (à la the BBC’s Children In Need TV campaign) to raise money. Across France, every town will have some sort of event organised, usually on the Saturday. For example, in Nice there is a free show and party at the port from 8pm.

Meanwhile in Monaco there will be all kinds of activities for children and adults down at Port Hercule starting at 6pm, one hour after the Christmas fair is officially opened by the mayor. Participants can learn how to do country dancing, singing, various sports activities, circus tricks, etc, and for children there’s also face painting and a work shop on how to make Christmas decorations. CL