MDA Telethon 2012: American Idol Alums Carrie Underwood and Paula Abdul Help Raise Awareness

The MDA Telethon 2012 featured pop singers Carrie Underwood and Paul Abdul among other Hollywood celebrities at the September 2 TV event.  Former American Idol judge Abdul and Idol winner Underwood had a special reunion.  With their star power, much awareness was raised for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Underwood performed "Nobody Ever Told You" from the chart-topping "Blown Away" album.

Before she took the stage, she was introduced by Abdul.  "Well, I'm not surprised our next guest's tour is called 'Blown Away.' I think back to where our journey first began on 'American Idol' and I'm literally blown away by this beautiful talent. What a blessing it has been for me to be an up close and personal eyewitness to your youth, your talent, your passion and your amazing success."

The telethon renamed as "MDA Show of Strength" played three hours of performances that were pre-taped.  Viewers were encouraged to donate to support the continuous search for treatments and cures for the disease.

MDA affects over 1 million Americans.  It is a disorder that weakens the muscles to the point of disability.  Up until 2011, Jerry Lewis was the main spokesperson and chairman of MDA.  He had dedicated his life to find a cure for the disease and have raised more than $2.5 billion dollars.

For many, this Labor Day is just not the same without Jerry Lewis.  However, Underwood and many other performances were warmly welcomed as the potential for raising greater awareness of the disease is great.