TUCSON, Ariz. — Former Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) National Goodwill Ambassador Kelly Mahoney, of Phoenix, will be featured in an inspiring profile on the newly formatted national telecast of the MDA Labor Day Telethon.

For the first time ever, the 46th annual MDA Labor Day Telethon will be shown entirely in prime time on a single evening, Sunday, Sept. 4. Broadcast from the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas, it will air from 6 p.m. to midnight in every time zone.

In the Phoenix area, the Telethon will be seen on KTVK, Channel 3.

About Kelly Mahoney

Mahoney, 21, is affected by spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic disease that causes widespread weakness and atrophy of voluntary muscles. Meet Kelly Mahoney.

Mahoney, who was MDA’s National Goodwill Ambassador in 1994, currently works for the Make-A-Wish Foundation International. She continues to be active in MDA special events and takes part in the local Telethon each year.

“It was one of the greatest experiences ever,’’ said Mahoney, referring to her time serving as MDA National Goodwill Ambassador. “I was so loved and accepted and well taken care of. It’s an incredible organization. I don’t know what I would have done without MDA. I don’t know where I’d be right now, or where I would have been without them.’’

Mahoney said the best experience she had was being on stage as the energetic Charo sang to her. She was 4 years old at the time.

“I got to wear my favorite pink dress, and Charo thanked me and danced for me,’’ she said. “It’s one of the greatest moments I can remember from the Telethon.’’

About the MDA Labor Day Telethon

An outstanding lineup of top stars is set to appear on the Telethon this year, including Celine Dion, Lady Antebellum, Jennifer Lopez, Darius Rucker and Jordin Sparks. In addition to the entertainment, the Telethon also will feature profiles of individuals and families affected by neuromuscular diseases, important and groundbreaking research updates, and presentations by MDA’s national sponsors.

Co-hosting the six-hour broadcast will be Nigel Lythgoe (“American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance”), Nancy O’Dell (“Entertainment Tonight”), Alison Sweeney (“The Biggest Loser” and author of The Mommy Diet) and television producer Jann Carl.

Approximately 150 "Love Network" stations will carry the Telethon from coast to coast, and it will be seen around the world via live streaming at mda.org.

This year’s Telethon will feature special behind-the-scenes segments from the show on the Association’s website mda.org, and social sites Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. “Telethon Extras” will provide visitors with insight on living with a neuromuscular disease, information on current research, and interviews with celebrities, sponsors and MDA families from backstage during the Telethon.

About MDA

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

In greater Phoenix, MDA offers exceptional medical and health care services through its clinic at St. Joseph’s Hospital & Medical Center.