Dad-to-be AJ Macado is goin’ up in the crane early this year to collect toys for Rady Children’s Hospital.

Friday, October 16, 2009 marks the date when the Star 94.1 morning show host AJ will enter the crane on his charitable mission for San Diego kids in need. 

For the eighth year in a row, AJ has taken up residence (eating, sleeping, etc.) on an 8’ x 10’ platform that is elevated up to 60-feet above ground until his annual toy collecting goal is achieved. “AJ’s Kids Crane” will take place in the IKEA parking lot. It took 7 days to reach last year’s goal of 101,000 toys, so AJ’s crossing his fingers for sunny skies in October.

“Despite our difficult economy, San Diegans have always shown their generosity and we’re confident that this year will be no exception,” said AJ Machado, host of Star 94.1’s new “AJ in the Morning” show. “Something as simple as a toy can make the fear and pain of a child’s illness or injury easier to bare. The toys we collect now will brighten the lives of thousands of children receiving treatment at Rady Children’s Hospital.” 

Toy contributions and funds will be accepted during the “AJ’s Kids Crane” event at the IKEA in Mission Valley and at all Pacific Marine Credit Union locations. You can also donate online at ajmornings.com. 

On the morning of Friday, October 16 AJ Machado will be lifted up on a scissor lift crane where he will stay until more than 101,000 new and unwrapped toys are collected for patients of Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego. 

Join DiscoverSD.com in supporting AJ during the first night of “AJ’s Kids Crane” on Friday, October 16. Get details here.