Heather Gowdy, our Employee Benefits Account Manager, was at PSU last month to support her daughter, Hannah, who has participated in THON three years in a row, but was elected to dance this year at the 51st Annual THON. The funds raised at this event goes to Four Diamonds. The Four Diamonds’ mission is to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children and their families through superior care, comprehensive support, and innovative research.
Heather, along with thousands of other spectators, was there to see firsthand the 700 plus dancers participate in this 46-hour event and felt so many emotions watching what these dancers go thru to support this foundation. Heather was kind enough to share some of her thoughts and feelings with us that we wanted to share with you!
This year, my daughter, was one of the 707 dancers on the main floor. Just to better understand, every person in the building during the duration of THON, cannot sit during their time inside. The students and other spectators in the stands can come and go freely so they are able to leave when they are tired and sleep. It was not until I was there, on the floor, visiting Hannah and interacting with these dancers, that I could truly understand their commitment “For the Kids.” For 46 hours these dancers could only stand; no sitting, no sleeping. The exhaustion, wrapped ankles and/or legs, compression socks worn, massages, ice foot baths, ice bags around their necks, constant stretches, and of course tears, lots and lots of tears, was worth it all for when the final total raised this year was finally revealed. Their demanding work and determination did not go unnoticed. Penn State’s THON 2023 broke its record for most money raised with over $15 million raised!!!
THON is a student-run philanthropy committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer. THON is also the largest student-run philanthropy organization in the world. The money raised is donated to Four Diamonds at Penn State Children’s Hospital aiding in the fight against childhood cancer. Their mission is to provide emotional and financial support, spread awareness, and ensure funding for critical research – all in pursuit of a cure. Their yearlong efforts culminate in a 46-hour dance marathon
Our entire team at Miers is extremely proud of Hannah and all that she has accomplished the past three years in support of a wonderful cause.
If you would like to learn more about Four Diamond, please visit: https://www.fourdiamonds.org/about-us/
Hannah was kind enough to share a few pictures from the weekend. Thank you, Hannah!
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- Heather and her daughter Hannah.
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- Total raised.
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- Hannah and her team.
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- Pictured on the right, we have Miers Insurance Controller and PSU Alum Patti Carr.
