LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The devastation of Superstorm Sandy has touched thousands of lives humbling the University of Kentucky men's basketball team, in conjunction with WKYT, to get involved hosting a telethon Wednesday.

The telethon will be Wednesday night from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. eastern time with 100 percent of the proceeds directly benefiting the storm's victims.

Coach John Calipari tells us he has been worried sick about everyone affected.

"I have many friends from New Jersey and New York, and I called a bunch of people to make sure they were alright. And you sit there and think what can you do? How can you help?" said Coach Cal.

A telethon more than a year ago at WKYT after the earthquake in Haiti was a great success with Coach Cal which brought thousands of calls and raised thousands of dollars.

And this time around they hope to do the same and maybe even better.

"If we're able to do something and raise a ton of money for these people and for these victims, you have to do it," said Coach Cal. "It's not an option of well you've got a game Friday against Maryland. 'Isn't that big?' Yeah, it's big. I know it it. But what we're doing here is bigger."

Coach Cal and even his own players along with surprise guests will be answering the calls.

The telethon will air throughout the state on UK Network affiliates, as members of the men's basketball team will take phone calls and donations. Donations can be made by calling either 859.299.5455, locally, or 1-800-REDCROSS.

During non-telethon hours, people can call the Red Cross at 859.253.1331 or 800.REDCROSS. Donations will also be accepted at www.redcross.org.

The special event will also stream live at WKYT.com
For more information from the Red Cross, contact Winn Stephens at winn.stephens@redcross.org.