HARRISBURG – Senators Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35), Cris Dush (R-25) and Scott Martin (R-13) are working to honor the annual THON fundraiser led by Penn State students to support families affected by childhood cancer.
The Senators introduced a resolution designating the week of February 12-18 as “THON Week” in Pennsylvania and honoring the work of the 16,500 Penn State student volunteers who make the fundraiser possible.
THON provides both emotional and financial support for families who benefit from the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. As the largest student-run philanthropy effort in the world, THON has raised $219 million to help 4,800 families since its creation in 1973.
The year-long fundraiser culminates in a 46-hour dance marathon that will take place February 16-18 at the Bryce Jordan Center. A livestream of the event is available at https://thon.org/livestream.
THON raised more than $15 million in 2023 alone.
“Penn State THON showcases the unwavering dedication of students, alumni, volunteers, and supporters in the fight against pediatric cancer,” said Langerholc. “I’m proud to support this tremendous organization.”
“Penn State, thank you for all you do to support THON,” said Dush. “As always, donations large or small, make it possible for pediatric cancer patients and their parents not to have to make difficult choices between what is the best treatment and what their family budget can afford. If only one person can make a difference in the fight against childhood cancer, imagine what all of us can do together.”
“I am extremely proud of the amazing efforts of all the young people supporting THON and giving hope to families affected by childhood cancer,” Martin said. “THON is a labor of love that sends a strong message to our young cancer warriors and their loved ones: you are not alone.”
VIDEO (Dush): https://vimeo.com/pasenategop/020524-dush-thonweek?share=copy
VIDEO (Martin): https://vimeo.com/pasenategop/020524-martin-thonweek?share=copy
CONTACT: Gwenn Dando (Langerholc)
Ty McCauslin (Dush)
Jason Thompson (Martin)