STATE COLLEGE -- THON 2016 wrapped up at Penn State University Sunday afternoon.
The annual dance marathon drew thousands of people to the Bryce Jordan Center in State College. Dancers raised over $9 million
Students including Jane Henry from Dallas danced for two days straight. She said, “It's been kind of a roller coaster of emotions. At first, I was shocked that this was happening. And there were some low points where I really just wanted to cry without a reason for it, but ultimately it's been an incredible experience and I'd do it again in a heartbeat.”
THON raises money to help fight pediatric cancer.
James Stone from Lebanon is a cancer survivor. He calls THON a bittersweet experience. “I don't know what to expect every year when I come and this year,” said Stone. “This year is the first time I was actually able to bring my daughter."
Dancers say, even though the last few hours were difficult, it's all worth it in the end. Now, THON is a memory they can carry for years to come.
Nicholas Vough from Pittston is a first time THON dancer. He says his brother danced a few years ago and now it's his turn to give back.
“Dancing for 46 hours is pretty tough but it's definitely worth it for all of the kids,” added Vough.
This year, THON raised more than $9 million. A substantial drop from last year’s total of more than $13 million.
A THON spokesperson says some changes in the ways students raise money like canning and cancelled events led to the lower total.
Dancers still consider this year a success.
"Numbers really don't matter as long as we are making money for pediatric cancer that's a win," said Vough.