15,840 Calories in Two Days!

In February 1999, I achieved what many would think is nearly impossible. I burned 15,840 calories in just two days! This weekend over 700 students will achieve the same goal.  The calories aren't the benefit however, instead it is the health of others.  This year marks the 40th anniversary of Penn State's Dance Marathon or THON as most affectionately refer to the event.  What is THON?--A 46 hour dance marathon (when I danced it was 48 hours) that benefits the Four Diamonds Fund at Hershey Medical Center.  The Four Diamonds Fund provides support to children and families facing a battle against pediatric cancer. Throughout those 40 years, Penn State Students have raised $78,000,000 to support the children, their families, and research that we hope will some day lead to a cure.

For me, dancing in Thon has been one of the most memorable events of my life. I can remember every detail like it was yesterday.  Of course there are a few hours that I now know were from about 3 AM-8 AM on Sunday morning (you start dancing on Friday) that I don't remember at all, but the last hours are as clear as what I had for breakfast this morning.  Thon '99 One Step Closer raised just over $2.5 million!

I had met many of the children and their families and realized how appreciative they were. I cried as many of the families shared their stories. I laughed with many of the children as we danced and played games. I hugged parents with tears rolling down their faces as they watched their children laugh and smile.  Despite every amazing moment from dancing in Thon, after over 10 years, I only now am beginning to see the full impact that Thon has on the children and families that benefit from the Four Diamonds Fund.  For the past two years, I have followed the journey of a child of a fellow Penn State Nutrition Grad.  6 and  1/2 year old Emily, has been fighting Leukemia.   I have seen through her online journals how much the year round support  of the Penn State students have impacted their family.  The money raised is only a small fraction of the benefits from this event!  I urge you to take the time this weekend to think about donating to Thon.  At a minimum, I hope that you will pray for all of the children and families facing Pediatric Cancer especially Emily!  And please pray for all of the students and volunteers that make this event possible.

FTK!!!!