HuskyTHON

This past weekend might just be an ordinary weekend for the vast majority of people. However, at the University of Connecticut, that’s a different story. The University held its annual fundraising event HuskyTHON on February 17th. HuskyTHON is an 18 hour dance marathon that help raise money for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Their slogan, “For the Kids”, emphasizes the collaborative philanthropic efforts of UConn students and staff towards giving children the care that they deserve. This year’s HuskyTHON event proved that it was truly an exceptional effort because the UConn community set a new, all-time record by surpassing through their goal of raising one million dollars and raised a total of $1,021,485. What’s even more surprising is the fact that HuskyTHON is almost entirely run by generations of UConn students. The first HuskyTHON took place in 2000 raising $13,878, which means we’ve made a lot of progress since when we first started. Regardless of the amount raised, it still makes a difference and that is all that matters.

The Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is one of the many hospitals that is a part of the Children’s Miracle Network,which is a nonprofit organization that treats a myriad of pediatric conditions or illnesses, such as childhood cancer, premature injuries, and genetic diseases. UConn is proud to be one of the many schools that hosts marathons to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network.

As is tradition, HuskyTHON took place at the Greer Fieldhouse, and thousands of students showed up to participate in making a difference in children’s lives. Students of all different ages, majors, and backgrounds gathered together with the common goal of reaching out to the nation and contributing towards helping those in need. What’s even more encouraging is the fact that 48 of the many participants involved were actually Miracle Network children patients or survivors. Each child was assigned to a team and were there to cheer on the dancers. Being there not only helped support this fundraiser, but allowed students to raise awareness of the struggle that some children go through. Being on your feet for 18 hours straight is without a doubt a challenge, but the physical strain on the dancers’ bodies pale in comparison to the reality of the debilitating conditions that some children suffer from. Not only is HuskyTHON a great way to fund-raise and spead awareness, but it is also a worthwhile experience. The atmosphere and the passion thriving throughout the room, coupled with the simple fact that the cumulative efforts of the UConn community helps improve the quality of life of someone who struggles to live a normal life deems every single se

cond at HuskyTHON a surreal moment.

After all these years, HuskyTHON has grown into one of the largest philanthropic events in New England. Parents describe it as the only day that their kids can truly “be a kid”. Our efforts tell children that there are plenty of reasons to continue fighting, and their bravery inspires us to live each day of our lives to the fullest.