After a night of standing up for a good cause, the Saint Mary's Dance Marathon committee announced they had raised over $90,000 during the academic year for Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis.
"Our total was $91,538.24, which was a $6,000 increase over last year," Dance Marathon president Sarah Voss said. "The fact that we managed to increase our total during a recession is amazing."
Participants were encouraged to stay on their feet for 12 hours in honor of children who are unable to do so.
"The marathon was amazing," Voss said. "I don't think I've ever seen so many committed dancers who were prepared to stay on their feet all night long. Students this year really understood why they were there - to stand for someone who couldn't."
The marathon was held Friday in Angela Athletic Facility at Saint Mary's College. It began at 8 p.m. and continued through the night, ending at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Participants donated $12 to register for the event.
The marathon was packed with different things for participants to do, special guests and tons of activities. During the marathon, dancers had the chance to play games, climb on a rock wall, do crafts, bounce in a bounce house and dance.
"I think a large number of the participants just wanted to dance the night away, so that was really fun," Voss said.
Voss said around 400 people participated in this year's event.
"I think the event had about the same participation as last year, although I think that this year's dancers were even more committed than in previous years," Voss said.
Throughout the night, families with children at Riley Hospital shared stories about their experiences.
"Students seemed really excited to meet the Riley families and join the big Dance Marathon family," Voss said. "My favorite moment was when Sheila Fraser, a 15-year-old student, shared her story about battling osteosarcoma at Riley Hospital. I don't think there was a dry eye in the gym."
To get involved with the club, email dmarathn@saintmarys.edu or visit their Web site at www.smcdm.org.
