THON 2018 Raises $10.15 Million for the Fight Against Pediatric Cancer

Another year, another big fundraising total for Penn State’s THON and its efforts to support pediatric cancer patients and research.

After a year of raising money culminated in this weekend’s 46-hour no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon at the Bryce Jordan Center, the event concluded with the reveal that THON 2018 raised $10,151,663.93 for the Four Diamonds at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. 

Since 1977, THON, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy, has raised more than $156 million for the Four Diamonds to provide financial support for pediatric cancer patients and their families as well as facilities and research. Because of Four Diamonds and THON, no pediatric cancer patient family at Penn State Hershey receives a medical bill.

This year’s fundraising total is an increase over last year’s of $10,045,478.44. The high-water mark was set in 2014 with $13,343,517.33,

The final hours of THON in the Bryce Jordan Center were an emotional ride. The traditional Family Hour recognized all Four Diamonds families and the families of three Four Diamonds children took to the stage to share stories of heartbreak and inspiration. 

The band Go Go Gadjet, meanwhile, kept everyone on their feet and energized for the final hour before dancers were able to sit for the first time in two days at 4 p.m.

Video by Trevor Hayes