The first
Birthday Ball was held in 1934; 4,376 communities joined together in 600
separate celebrations to raise over one million dollars for the Warm Springs
Foundation. Future fundraising contributions were split between Warm Springs
and the local communities in which the Birthday Balls were held.
By the end of the 1930s it was apparent these once-a-year events weren't enough to stave off the growing epidemic, plus there was the property in Warms Springs, which was also growing. From the number of buildings to the number of patients to fill them. This disease was a grave concern for the parents of younger ones.
At this pace, the bottom would fall out in no time as patients continue to outweigh resources, and research takes time and steady funding.
Basil O'Connor had an idea. One that would generate enough money yet would cost only a dime...times millions.
These parties each year generated so much money for the President's #1 cause: the treatment and vaccine for polio. The virus was getting worse during the 1930s and more people, mostly children, were falling victim to this disease. During this time, these fund raising events would carry the financial load for FDR 's research teams, specialists, equipment, and access to information and education to the public.
By the end of the 1930s it was apparent these once-a-year events weren't enough to stave off the growing epidemic, plus there was the property in Warms Springs, which was also growing. From the number of buildings to the number of patients to fill them. This disease was a grave concern for the parents of younger ones.
At this pace, the bottom would fall out in no time as patients continue to outweigh resources, and research takes time and steady funding.
Basil O'Connor had an idea. One that would generate enough money yet would cost only a dime...times millions.
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