3FM Serious Request raises 11.5 million euros for metabolic disease research in kids

This year’s 3FM Serious Request charity campaign has raised 11.5 million euros, organizers announced Tuesday evening on the final day of the event. It marks the first time since 2014 that the campaign has surpassed the 10 million euros threshold. The 2014 edition remains the most successful, with nearly 12.4 million euros collected.

Over the past week, 3FM DJs Barend van Deelen, Sophie Hijlkema, and Wijnand Speelman broadcast live from the Glazen Huis (Glass House) in Zwolle. The funds were raised to support Metakids, an organization dedicated to researching metabolic diseases in children. Donations poured in through various means, including listener-initiated campaigns and song requests.

The most requested song was "Fix You" by Coldplay. Other popular choices included "Flappie" by Youp van 't Hek and "Europapa" by Joost Klein.

"I feel immense joy," said DJ Wijnand Speelman at the conclusion of the campaign. "There was a lot of unity and solidarity in the Netherlands. Normally, we focus on looking forward or backward, but too little to the people around us—left and right. What stood out was the importance of taking off our blinders and truly connecting with each other. In the Glass House, we had a microphone to stay in touch with people, and I felt that everyone wishes good health for one another, especially for children."

Jan-Matthijs van Eendenburg, director of Metakids, described the week as extraordinary. "This incredible amount ensures that metabolic diseases are no longer unknown. With this enormous sum, our goal of providing treatment to 50 percent of patients by 2035 is truly within reach. On behalf of the metabolic disease community, I am indescribably grateful. This allows us to further develop gene therapies, improve medications, enhance medical diets, and provide better patient care. This offers so much hope and perspective."

3FM station manager Menno de Boer praised the team’s efforts and the public’s overwhelming support. "This edition broke records with the number of community actions, the volume of guest lessons in schools, the long lines for the Glass House mailboxes, and the ecstatic crowds during donation announcements. Barend, Sophie, and Wijnand did a fantastic job and were truly one with the listeners and supporters, all working toward the goal of raising as much as possible for Metakids."

The 11.5 million euros collected will be used to advance research, therapies, and patient care for children with metabolic diseases.