<p>Why do you think this event is so successful/popular? For those who have participated any advice for students trying to start one up?</p>
<p>thanks for this link - wow what tiimng!</p>
<p>Yeah, that's what I though too :)</p>
<p>Well in the dead of winter at state college there isn't much else going on except for snow, so in my opinion, this gives kids something to look forward to and get them through the winter, all while helping out a great cause.</p>
<p>It's the whole experience that makes it so popular. People can talk about it and tell you how amazing it is, but to know truly how amazing it is you have to be there to experience it. My brother was a dancer last year and I took a bus up 2 days before my parents came up and stayed in a dorm with one of his friends. It was such an eye-opener, seeing these kids that barely experienced life yet fighting to life. Some of them come out of the hospital a weekend just for this and its the best thing of their lives. I also think that being a part of helping people, raising 5.2 million dollars, hopefully more this year, is why the students are so into it.</p>
<p>Thon is simply awe inspiring. My son is a member of Atlas and works tirelessely to fundraise for the cause. At first he joined as a social outlet but as he became more involved he appreciates the difficulties that these families encounter. I think what makes it real for the students is that each organization adopts a child who is battling cancer and they get to know the child and his/her family personally. They are saddened by the set backs and bouyed by the accomplishments in treatment.</p>
<p>YouTube</a> - THON 2008 Heroes Video</p>
<p>YouTube</a> - 2008 Penn State Dance Marathon Promo Video</p>
<p>Two youtube promotional videos for 2008 Thon</p>
<p>if you would like to donate to Thon to help children with cancer and their families please visit Penn</a> State Dance Marathon - Helping to Conquer Childhood Cancer and click on donate online on the right hand side. Every little bit helps!!!</p>
<p>Thon will be here soon. February 22-24 at the BJC.</p>