What does THON mean to Penn State students?
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As THON weekend approaches, it becomes a very emotional time for Penn State students.
Whether they participate in the 46-hour dance marathon for personal reasons or to volunteer to a good cause, it’s a powerful event that leaves the community with the hope that a cure will be found for childhood cancer. Penn State sophomore Anthony Riello says he THONs for his grandma and best friend who suffer from cancer.
“To me THON is one of the most amazing and unique experiences you can get,” Riello said. “When you are in the BJC with all these other students, there is an energy that is truly special.”
Each year, more than 16,500 student volunteers participate in the year-long fundraising efforts to benefit Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. Member Development Coordinator of Eclipse, Logan Gibson says after his first THON last year, the impact encouraged him to become more involved in his organization.
“If I had to say one thing about what THON means to me, it would be pretty hard because you just have to be there to experience and feel that impact,” Gibson said.
The 46-hour dance marathon officially starts at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17. The Total Reveal will be announced at 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19 after the dancers sit.
Haley Jacobs is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email haj5104@psu.edu.
