The University of Iowa’s Dance Marathon Kicks Off Its 31st Year of Fundraising
Under the vibrant glow of neon lights and the pulsating energy of music, the Iowa Memorial Union became an exhilarating arena on Friday night as the University of Iowa launched its 31st annual Dance Marathon. This remarkable event aims to raise funds for pediatric cancer patients receiving treatment at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
A Heartfelt Welcome
The 24-hour marathon commenced at 7 p.m., featuring speeches from an inspiring group of organizers that included students, faculty, hospital staff, and donation partners. Bill Nelson, the associate dean and executive director of the Iowa Memorial Union, expressed the pride the university feels in hosting this impactful event. “This is one of the student experiences that we are most proud of,” he stated to the assembled crowd.
The Stories Behind the Donations
Sarah Hansen, the University of Iowa’s vice president for student life, also addressed attendees, highlighting the significance of the fundraising drive. Hansen poignantly remarked, “Every one of the dollars that you raise is someone’s story—a doctor’s story, a family’s story, but, most importantly, a kiddo’s story.” Dance Marathon directly supports around 1,400 families of pediatric cancer patients treated at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
Cherishing Survivors
Following the opening remarks, hundreds of children at varying stages of their cancer recovery, donned in matching blue Dance Marathon t-shirts, took to the stage alongside their families. The crowd erupted into cheers, celebrating the resilience of these young fighters. Among them was Mark Schebel, a resident of Iowa City, who attended his second Dance Marathon in support of his daughter, now six months into her treatment for B-cell leukemia. “All the doctors are phenomenal, and you just feel really welcome,” Schebel shared, reflecting on his family’s journey at the hospital.
Community Reunions
David Gordon, the division director of hematology and oncology at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital, expressed that the Dance Marathon offers a unique opportunity for families to reconnect in a joyful environment outside the hospital setting. “They bond on the floor and in clinic; it’s great for them to catch up and see each other,” Gordon noted. His observations highlight the distinctive nature of this event, remarking, “I was at three different large academic medical centers, and they didn’t have anything like this.”
Celebrating Student Efforts
Jim Leste, the chief administrative officer of Stead Family Children’s Hospital, echoed Gordon’s sentiment about the event’s unique character, highlighting the impressive selflessness and hard work of the student organizers. He commended their meticulous organization and dedication to placing families at the forefront of the event. “Probably the coolest part is how many families are here,” Leste noted, emphasizing the communal aspect of the celebration.
Enduring Excitement and Community Spirit
As the hours passed, excitement remained palpable, even for fourth-year student Kristen Schlawin. “This is one of my favorite weekends of the year,” she said. Having initially experienced Dance Marathon virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic, Schlawin has since embraced the in-person format, committing to the full 24 hours for the past two years. “It’s just so rewarding when you get to the end of it. There’s nothing quite like it,” she expressed.
Fundraising Goals and Expectations
With over 1,100 dancers registered for this year’s event, each encouraged to raise at least $300, the anticipation was high for the results. Last year, Dance Marathon garnered over $1.4 million during its 30th anniversary. As the event approached its conclusion, the community eagerly awaited the announcement of this year’s fundraising total—a testament to the solidarity and support for families at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
For those interested in learning more about Dance Marathon and supporting efforts for pediatric cancer patients, visit Dance Marathons.org.
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