This past weekend I had the opportunity of dancing alongside 840 of my fellow classmates for 26.2 hours to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. To say this experience was incredible would be an understatement. Dancing for those who can’t and listening to the stories of children is one of the most eye-opening and rewarding experiences I have ever had. To have a hospital band placed on my wrist by a child for raising $1000 is an incredible feeling. It is surreal to be able to say that I took a role in helping to fundraise $3,026,420.19. While the pain of dancing for so long and staying awake can be challenging, there is nothing more rewarding than having a child cut off your hospital band to symbolize you have completed the 26.2 hours. Here are 5 reasons why every University of Florida student should participate in Dance Marathon.

1. Miracle Child Stories

Throughout the event, children come with their families to share their story. These children shed light on the impact that the money fundraised will have on their life. Every time your feet start to hurt, these children remind you of why you are fighting for a cure.

2. The Rave

This event is called DANCE marathon for a reason! Around 1:30 AM a DJ comes in and you feel as if you are at a concert. The lights go off, you are dressed up and for one whole hour you get to feel like you are at a concert with your friends. Plus, the pain in your legs is hidden!

3. The Line Dance

At the top of every hour, a song comes on and every dancer/captain lines up to do a dance. This dance is about 4-6 minutes long and is very uplifting during the late hours. It is amazing to see the entire arena filled with people all doing the same dance.

4. The Gong

Every time someone raises $100 they get to ring the gong. It is incredible how many times the gong is rung during the 26.2 hours and how many people are donating throughout the duration of the event. Not only is ringing the gong an incentive for raising money, but people also get a headband tied around their head by a child for raising $250 during the event. Again, it is so special to see so many people sporting headbands and knowing that they were able to raise so much money.

5. The Reveal

At the conclusion of Dance Marathon, the arena gathers to reflect on the past 26.2 hours of dancing and the whole year of fundraising. There is nothing more amazing and exciting than watching the leaders of Dance Marathon stand on the stage and reveal the total amount fundraised. It is in this moment that you are overwhelmed with pride and feel so accomplished in helping this amazing cause. Finally, miracle children walk around with scissors, cutting off hospital bands, to symbolize the conclusion of your personal fight— this is truly an experience like no other.