Jerry Lewis Calling it Quits with MDA?

Jerry Lewis has served as the Muscular Dystrophy Association National Chairman since the mid 50's.
Now, at the age of 85, he is hanging it up. He has hosted the Labor Day Telethon since 1966. It is hard to believe, that we won't be watching him raise money for such a good cause any longer.

During his time as chairman, he has helped to raise over $1 Billion with the telethon. Lewis was to make a guest appearance at this years event, but has since cancelled. No reason has been given. MDA has said that they do not plan to have a replacement for Lewis as chairman. How do you replace someone that has dedicated his life to such a cause?

In recent years, the 85 year old comedian has been battling back conditions, heart problems and pulmonary fibrosis.

The first telethon in New York City raised $1 million. In 1973, the event moved to Las Vegas (Lewis's hometown). It has also been in Los Angeles several times. In 2006, it once again moved to Las Vegas. Carried on more than 170 stations, the telethon raised about $59 million last year.

In 1976, Frank Sinatra brought Lewis and Dean Martin back together on the show. They had been split for 20 years.

The Labor Day Telethon just will not be the same without Jerry. Speaking on behalf of many Americans, "Thank You and God Bless You."