Message from the Overall Chair

Hello! My name is Elaine Tanella and I am honored and privileged to serve as the Overall Chairperson for the 2012 Penn State Dance Marathon. I can already tell that this year will be an extraordinarily special one, as 2012 marks the 40th anniversary of THON. I am looking forward to working with all of the dedicated students, alumni, faculty, staff, donors, and supporters. It is the collective harmony of all of these groups that makes THON a success each year, and who play an integral role in our fight against pediatric cancer.

In 1973, 39 couples danced for 30 hours in the HUB Student Union Ballroom, raising $2,000. Today, THON is a year-long, student-led fundraising and awareness effort. It culminates each February in a 46 hour no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon in the Bryce Jordan Center. Moreover, THON is an integral part of the Penn State culture. “FTK” or “For The Kids” is a rallying call that engages more than 15,000 Penn State students across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to give of their time, money and selves. Because of the effort of these students, and the support of people like you, THON is able to provide outstanding emotional and financial support to families battling pediatric cancer. To date, THON has raised more than $78 million.

THON helps make it possible for The Four Diamonds Fund, THON’s sole beneficiary, to assist children being treated for cancer and their families at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital through superior care and comprehensive support. The Fund provides the ability to offset the costs of cancer treatment not covered by insurance. Additionally, the Fund hires world-class medical specialists as part of its cancer fighting team. Among these staff persons are, oncologists, child life specialists, and clinical nutritionists. The Fund has also established multiple research endowments that impacts children across the nation. Most recently, The Fund has been able to establish a research program that will allow for Phase I and Phase II clinical trials, bringing us one step closer to a cure.

THON unifies people across the commonwealth, and the nation, to raise awareness and funds For The Kids of today, and the kids of the future. With your help, we will make a difference in the life of a child. One day we will dance in celebration of a cure. Until then, we will dance for life.

Thank you for believing in the fight.

For The Kids, For The Fight,

Elaine Tanella
THON 2012 Overall Chair
Penn State Dance Marathon