The University of Northern Iowa Dance Marathon is an organization that raises funds for the University Children's Hospital of Iowa and the Children's Miracle Network. The organization aims to provide emotional and financial support to families with children facing life-threatening illnesses by raising funds for Children's Miracle Network hospitals and hosting events that raise awareness among students and the community. This money is then spent on things like research, education, equipment and improving pediatric services so that children and families can feel a little more comfortable during their time at the hospital. hospital. The big event was March 1, 2014, but the organization hosts events throughout the year to raise as much money as possible for Miracle Network kids, like a 5K color run on campus , treats for children who can't. and selling grilled cheese at midnight during homecoming celebrations. Although there are many smaller events throughout the year, the focus is on "the big event." It's a 12-hour dance marathon where dancers who have spent the year raising money for the cause dance their hearts out, meet children from the Children's Miracle Network and their families, and have the opportunity to continue giving (whether through signing up to donate bone marrow or getting a haircut for Locks of Love). At this large party, attendees are not allowed to sit/lie down or have caffeine. It's about trying to reproduce a little bit of what children feel on a daily basis, having to undergo treatments and long stays in hospital while trying to keep their spirits up. Throughout the 12 hours, families are invited to take the stage and tell the story of their experiences with the Universi...... middle of paper ...... the marathon, form a feeling of unity and bond around love for the same cause. It is important that any athlete or coach working with a team knows how to work as one unit to achieve a common goal, rather than trying to carry all the weight alone. Raising over $176,000 for UNI Dance Marathon 2014 would have been impossible for one person to achieve! I am very honored to have been a part of this organization for the 2013-2014 school year and plan to participate next year as well. At the end of the event, I still feel inspired and ready to make even more of a difference in the lives of others, whether through volunteering, my future profession, or another organization at the University from Northern Iowa. I have learned a lot from the Miracle Kiddos and their families, and I plan to keep these life lessons with me as I pursue a career in the exercise and health sciences field..