It was a record-breaking weekend in the Happy Valley. Penn State students danced or stood upright at THON for 46 straight hours to raise a record-breaking $13.3 million for pediatric cancer.
The 42nd annual weekend fundraiser, affectionately known as THON, which is short for the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, takes place on Penn State's main campus. More than 700 students filled the Bryce Jordan Center starting at 6 p.m. Friday through 4 p.m. today.
THON is the largest student-run philanthropy organized effort in the world. The effort includes more than 15,000 Penn State student volunteers who support the efforts of THON throughout the year.
THON Executive Director Ryan Patrick described the endeavor as "another amazing year full of moments that take our breath away and remind us all that we are making a difference in the lives of the children and their families affected by pediatric cancer."
The funds raised go to help Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, which assists children treated for cancer and their families who seek care.
Since 1977, THON has raised more than $114 million for the Four Diamonds Fund.
Contact Sarah Glover at 610-668-5580, sarah.glover@nbcuni.com or follow @skyphoto on Twitter.
Photo Credit: Annemarie Mountz, Penn State News & Media Relations