March 30-The Children's Miracle Network Hospitals telethon is only two months away and fundraising efforts are already underway!

As reported in an ABC12.com article, first grade students in Mrs. Dalynn Murphy's class at Cook Elementary School in Grand Blanc Township raised money on March 28 in a very unique way–by transforming their classroom into a restaurant named the "D-Town Café."

Featuring a sports-like atmosphere, the jerseys of legendary Detroit athletes hung on the wall and the students, or "wait staff," wore jerseys themselves. They made professional menus, practiced waiting tables at home for weeks and even raised their own money by having lemonade stands. The students could raise money for any charity they wanted and they chose Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Even Miss Michigan stopped by!

After weeks of preparations, the big day arrived on Wednesday and the students had the chance to put their new skills to use. They even had a surprise guest make a reservation at D-Town Café! Miss Michigan, Elizabeth Wertenberger, took time out of her busy schedule to drop by. CMN Hospitals after all, is close to her heart.

"I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder at age 13 and spent the majority of my childhood in the hospital. I've devoted my year to giving back to children in similar situations," Wertenberger said.

CMN Hospitals Telethon June 3rd

During the CMN Hospitals Telethon, amazing families will share stories about how Hurley made all the difference in the lives of their miracle children. 100% of the money raised during this 10-hour broadcast will stay right at Hurley to help the infants and children it serves from the 15-county CMN Hospitals region. 

Several of the Cook Elementary School students will present a check from their fundraiser during the telethon, Sunday, June 3rd from 8am-6pm, on ABC12.

To read the ABC12.com story in its entirety, click here.