THON weekend is here! Hundreds taking part in annual 46-hour dance marathon at Penn State
The event at the Bryce Jordan Center raises money for families impacted by childhood cancer.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- The coffee and energy drinks are flowing in Happy Valley as THON weekend kicked off at Penn State Friday night.
Hundreds of people are taking part in the annual, 46-hour dance marathon.
This is the 53rd year for this event at Penn State. The location and logistics have changed over the years, but the mission here remains the same -- raising money for families impacted by childhood cancer.
"They've gone through so much at such a young age. It's amazing to see them so happy and getting the support they deserve," said Maya Vaisman, of Huntingdon Valley, Pa.
Students like Olivia Dunn, from Moorestown, New Jersey, says she's representing a special interest organization.
"But I'm also dancing for two family members of mine. I have them on my back actually."
She's a senior, so this is her last THON.
"It's given me a chance to really appreciate my own life, and then be able to give back to those who may not have it as good as me and who are fighting very real battles."
Joe Poliafico, of Haddonfield, New Jersey, is also taking part.
"Yeah, you're standing for 46 hours, but there's also kids running around the Bryce Jordan Center that have been through a lot harder than you have," he said. It's all about perspective, honestly."
Last year, participants presented a $17 million check to Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children's Hospital.
6abc will be sharing some of the incredible stories from THON all weekend long.
Watch our special "Dance for a Cure: Live From THON" sponsored by Penn State Health Children's Hospital at 7 p.m. on Saturday.
