Why I Do Dance Marathon by Erin Murphy

The happiest day of the year is almost here. We’re just days away from Dance Marathon, friends.

Dance Marathon is a 24-hour dance event that takes place on March 11 and 12 this year. Running from 5 p.m. on Friday to 5 p.m. on Saturday, the event raises money for the Helen Devos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event itself includes dancing, food, games, live music and lip syncs to keep students smiling and awake for the full duration of the event. But the best part is getting to hear the stories from the Miracle Families themselves. These Miracle Children, who have received or are currently receiving treatment from HDCH, will be in attendance, dancing the night away and partying with all of their college friends.

I have been so passionate about Dance Marathon since I came to Hope College. I have had the privilege of serving on different committees during my past two years here and I have fallen in love with Dance Marathon, Helen Devos Children’s Hospital, the work each of these organizations does, and of course, the kiddos.

Come on, how precious are they?

These bright, shining faces are just two of the many Miracle Children that Dance Marathon celebrates. They have overcome incredible adversity and beaten the odds with their families, doctors and nurses by their sides. I am constantly inspired by the hope and joy each of these kids has in their life, especially the kids who are still receiving treatment for their chronic illnesses.

I dance for them.

I dance so they have the opportunity to live full, happy lives filled with love and healing. I dance so they can have more birthdays and dance parties and so that they can grow up to be college students and maybe lead their own Dance Marathons.

Being a part of an organization as dedicated and driven as DM has been an incredible experience. Last Monday, a campus-wide goal was set to raise $17,000 in 24 hours in honor of the 17th annual Dance Marathon event at Hope College. And you know what?

$17,523.75 was raised that day alone.

How amazing is that?

For those of you participating in the event, I’d love to say something special to you.

Thank you.

Thank you for supporting these amazing kids and so many others who are undergoing treatment at HDCH now and in the future. Thanks for making these kids lives a little brighter, especially on their favorite day of the year. Don’t forget why you’re dancing, wearing fun costumes, and experiencing extreme sleep deprivation. It’s cliche, but it’s truly for the kids. Also, go all out for the theme hours and keep moving during the actual event. Trust me, it helps and the kids love it.

For those of you who still want to get involved in the event, it’s not too late. Whether it’s through prayers, monetary donations, moraling for eight hours or dancing for all 24, there are tons of opportunities still available to help support the work of HDCH. To donate money or register to participate in the event, you can visit: www.hopeforthekids.com.