As the spring semester comes to a close, one of the major events for many universities is Dance Marathon. Dance Marathon is an opportunity for college students to give back to different children in their area. Dance Marathon varies for each university, but all money raised goes to Children Miracle Network.

As the time comes for people to register and donate, others looking into participating in the event often ask, "Why? Why should I do this? Why should I spend so many hours in an enclosed space with so many people?" Well, the answer is FTK.

What does FTK actually mean? It means For The Kids. This can be seen as such a cliché answer, but what does "For The Kids" actually mean?

It means for the children in the hospital struggling for with so many diseases.

It means to support the children's family who are suffering.

It means to save a child's life.

So why should you do this event?

Because it benefits more than just the kids. After hearing many patient stories, and seeing the true impact on the families and their friends, it is enough in itself to get someone to sign up.

The fact that so many students stand for the hours of the event is to show the sacrifice we are making to benefit the children. If you look at the all the treatments, doctors appointments and surgeries they have been through, then standing for the event is nothing. It will never compare to the amount of suffering they have gone through.

Going to College of Charleston's Dance Marathon two years in a row, the event itself is "life-changing." Whether it is the patient stories for each child that has been through MUSC hospital or dancing with the children to silly songs, anything that you see or do during the event is inspiring for you and for the children.

The best part about the event is it doesn't matter the amount of money donated to each hospital, its the donation itself. Whatever is raised is an incredible milestone regardless. You never realize how something little can greatly impact another person's life.

No matter what you believe, Dance Marathon works directly with Children Miracle Network in many positive ways that each family can describe their unique story.

So next time the spring semester rolls around, support your school's Dance Marathon. You don't have to be at the event if that's not your speed, but donate, support a friend; make a difference in a child's life that needs your love.

If you feel as passionate about this event as I do, then contact your local event and see if they are accepting applications for their Executive Board. Being on the Executive Board is the beginning to create and even better experience for you.

FTK always.