Ninerthon to host 12th annual Dance Marathon supporting Levine Children’s Hospital

The 12th annual Dance Marathon once again will raise funds and awareness for Levine Children’s Hospital. The Dance Marathon, part of the Miracle Network Dance Marathon established in 1991, is spearheaded by the student organization, Ninerthon.

A six hour event, scheduled for 2 to 8 pm., Friday, April 11, in Belk Gymnasium, will feature student performances, games, food and a chance to hear from families who have benefited from Levine Children’s Hospital’s critical, life-saving treatments and health care services. 

Brennan Hugo, director of operations for Ninerthon, said beyond encouraging fundraising, the dance marathon gives the child patients and families a night to remember. 

“A main event with hundreds of people being active, dancing and having fun is so important for the kids who attend,” Hugo said. “Being able to give them a day of joy away from a dreary hospital room is all we ask, because seeing them happy and healthy is our goal.”

Friday’s event may be all fun, but the impact is serious. Past dance marathons have generated tens of thousands of dollars in donations that make a difference. Earlier this year, Hugo and Ninerthon members toured Levine Children’s Hospital. They saw specialized equipment marked with a Children’s Miracle Network balloon logo, indicating they were funded, in part, by dance marathon donations. 

“I found it so inspiring to see so many important machines and other equipment marked with the CMN logo and be reaffirmed that our efforts are paying off and having a real impact on the lives of these children,” Hugo said. 

Hugo encourages all members of Niner Nation to register to attend the dance marathon. 

“The campus community should definitely come and support the dance marathon because by doing so, you are joining hands in something much greater than yourself,” Hugo said.