Hoda Kotb Music Video to 'Shine A Light' on Adolescent Cancer
Hoda Kotb and her co-host on the "Today" show Katie Lee Gifford announced their plans for the New Year that will "shine a light" on difficult issues in 2014.
The morning show staples each took a vow for this year's edition of their "Shine A Light" campaign on Thursday.
While Kotb took a vow to serve children's fight against cancer with an inspirational music video, Gifford plans on making a coffee table book to encourage victims of Hurricane Sandy to make new memories.
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During the Jan. 9 episode of the "Today" show, Kotb described her "Shine A Light" effort with tears in her eyes.
"As a cancer survivor myself, I know what it feels like as a grownup, but what I can't even fathom, even now, is what it feels like to be a kid… Struggling with this grown-up disease," the 49-year-old television personality said, recalling her visit to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in 2007.
"[Cancer] is something they shouldn't have to deal with," Kotb continued. "And all you want to do is reach out and help and hug."
The news anchor went on to explain that her music video would provide support and motivation for children with cancer.
"It will be an anthem about being brave and being strong," she said.
Alternately, Kotb's co-host Gifford said that she will be raising money for the Salvation Army via the upcoming coffee table book.
"I want this book to be a blessing to whoever picks it up," the 60-year-old anchor explained. "I want to put a smile on their face. I want to put a prayer of gratitude in their own souls for the blessings that they have in life. The other goal for the book is to have all proceeds go to charity."
